Federal surveyors clear Central Regional Hospital

Raleigh, N.C. — Surveyors on behalf of the agency that oversees Medicare and Medicaid programs will suggest that Central Regional Hospital keep its certification to participate in federal insurance programs.

The state psychiatric hospital was at risk of losing $1.2 million a month in federal reimbursements because of issues concerning its patient fall-prevention policy and allegations of patient assaults by employees and patients.

Inspectors on behalf of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services told hospital administrators in an exit interview Friday that the facility has taken the necessary steps to correct the issues.

One employee was fired and five others were disciplined, Central Regional's director, Mike Hennike, said.

The hospital has also added an eighth patient advocate position and started a "No Abuse: Not Now, Not Ever" campaign that requires all employees to be aware of a zero-tolerance policy on patient abuse and neglect.

Hennike said the hospital will receive official notification from CMS on its status within the next two weeks.

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I agree Rev. North Carolina is the highest ranked state in America that has mental disorders but the worst in the country when it comes to finding adequate treatment and adequate funding. CRH should be a first rate top notch facility with the best in mental health care. Heritage Meadows has better care than CRH.

manofjustice
February 20, 2009 8:53 p.m.

This is a brand new facility. There shouldn't have been problems there that the Feds needed to keep track of.

But here in good old NC, the elderly, disabled and ill are the lowest thing on the budget.

That's why when I retire in May, I'm going back to PA where those that need help get it.

God bless.

Rev. RB

Spirit Warrior Woman - Rev. RB
February 20, 2009 8:08 p.m.

There have been problems with some hospitals in the past, and there will be problems that come with having to hire human beings to care for the mentally in need... so, let's give this a shot and see if it can be a better place for both employees and patients.

Just2bMe
February 20, 2009 8:04 p.m.

Grouse and make fun all you want. But, in my opinion you do not mess with Lanier Cansler! If Madame Gov'nah will let him run it, he will clean it up!

Tolip
February 20, 2009 7:57 p.m.

Central Regional's ridiculous policy of making all employees wear little white stickers saying "No Abuse, Not now, Not ever", is just another example of how Administrators are all show and no go. They are still trying to cram twice the patients in one facility with half the staff. Consequently, they have lost trained staff and many current staff members are untrained. Still, the people who have the least patient contact make the most money. What's wrong with this picture?