MILBRIDGE — Dr. Steven Weisberger, owner of the Narraguagus Bay Health Care Facility, sadly announces the closing of the facility. Dr. Weisberger states, “The closure of our facility is heartbreaking, but was impossible to prevent. I am so sad to have to make this decision. I know this will be difficult for the residents that have called our facility their home and the employees who are currently working at the facility. I am so appreciative to all the employees who have worked at the facility over the years and I am asking for all who are currently working or would be willing to work over the next few weeks to help us make this a smooth transition for the residents. Without the help and commitment of the employees, this will be a difficult transition.”
Narraguagus Bay Health Care Facility began providing care in Milbridge in the early 1970s. Dr. Weisberger has been the owner and operator of the facility since the early 1990s.
The current trend of a diminishing workforce combined with the impact of inflation and the low levels of reimbursement in the state are having a significant impact on long-term care in the state of Maine. The costs of running a facility in rural Maine relies primarily on reimbursement from MaineCare. MaineCare has fallen further behind in keeping up with the costs of providing care, including hiring enough staff to meet the regulatory standards. This is becoming increasingly apparent with the closing of several nursing facilities in the state over the past few years. Unfortunately this trend will continue or even increase.
The Department of Health and Human Services has approved the closure and is working with Narraguagus representatives on relocation plans for 46 residents. Narraguagus employees, Department of Health and Human Services staff, and the local long-term care ombudsman will be assisting residents and family members choose new housing and care options.
Informational meetings for families and residents have been scheduled. We know the decision to close is equally hard for the employees. There are neighbor facilities that have several staff openings and we hope all the area nursing homes will work together to find alternative
Residents will be given a 60-day notice to find alternative care settings. Final closure will be July 22. The facility will remain open until all residents have been successfully placed.
For further information please contact Mary Jane Richards, chief executive officer, consultant for Narraguagus Bay Health Care Facility at 1-207-786-3554 x-3323.
