Admissions to Overton Park Health Care Center Suspended

Tennessee Department of Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN, has suspended new admissions of patients to Overton Park Health Care Center effective October 3, 2007, and imposed a state civil monetary penalty of $3,000. A federal civil penalty has been recommended at $5,050 per day effective August 9, 2007, and continuing until the violations are corrected. A special monitor has been appointed to review the center’s operations.

Overton Park Health Care Center, a 169-bed licensed nursing home located at 131 North Tucker in Memphis, was ordered not to admit any new patients based on conditions found during an annual survey conducted September 17 through September 25. During the investigation, surveyors found violations of administration and basic services, and nursing services standards.

The Commissioner may suspend admissions to a nursing home when conditions are determined to be, or are likely to be, detrimental to the health, safety or welfare of the residents. The order to suspend admissions remains effective until conditions have been and continue to remain corrected. A copy of the order must be posted at the public entrance where it can be plainly seen.

The nursing home has the right to a hearing regarding the suspension of admissions before the Board for Licensing Health Care Facilities or an administrative judge.