WHITE PLAINS, NY — Nursing home operator Centers for Care has reached a $45 million settlement with the New York Attorney General’s office, bringing closure to allegations of resident neglect and financial misconduct. The company, which manages facilities in White Plains, The Bronx, Queens, and Buffalo, maintains that the claims were exaggerated and did not reflect its commitment to quality care.
“For over 30 years, Centers has cared for thousands of residents across dozens of facilities,” the company stated. “This settlement lets us move forward and focus on our residents while dismissing all allegations of wrongdoing.”
Investing in Care
The settlement includes $35 million for a fund to improve resident care and staffing, along with $8.75 million to reimburse Medicare and Medicaid. Centers has also agreed to reforms under the oversight of independent financial and healthcare monitors. These measures, already in place since 2023, aim to ensure transparency and accountability.
Centers welcomed the monitors and stated that the agreement supports its mission. “We are committed to meaningful reforms that benefit our residents and their families,” the company said.
Challenges of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit, filed in June 2023, accused Centers of prioritizing profits over care, citing examples of resident neglect. However, the company argues that these claims were sensationalized. For instance, a resident at the Martine Center in White Plains allegedly did not receive a shower for a month, while another at Beth Abraham Center in The Bronx developed gangrene.
Critics of the case argue that Centers faced unfair targeting. They believe the Attorney General’s office focused on isolated incidents to misrepresent the company’s overall performance. Supporters note that many long-term care providers face similar challenges, especially with rising costs and staffing shortages.
“This settlement is not an admission of wrongdoing,” a company spokesperson said. “It reflects our willingness to improve while addressing systemic issues in the industry.”
A Path Forward
Centers for Care plans to use the settlement as an opportunity to strengthen operations. By focusing on reforms and transparent financial practices, the company aims to rebuild trust with residents and their families.
“Our residents remain our top priority,” Centers stated. “This agreement lets us demonstrate our commitment to care and accountability.”
Despite the lawsuit’s challenges, Centers remains determined to move forward. With enhanced oversight and investments in staffing, the company believes it can achieve higher standards and meet the needs of its communities.
“This marks the beginning of a new chapter,” the company said. “We are ready to move past this dispute and focus entirely on our mission to provide quality care.”