Kansas City Families Concerned Over Nursing Home Ratings

Categories: Breaking NewsGovernment NewsHealthNews

Exterior view of a nursing home in Kansas City with gardens

News Summary

A recent report reveals that over one-third of nursing homes in the Kansas City area have received one-star ratings from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Families are now on high alert as they navigate the challenging process of choosing the right facility for their loved ones. The report highlights issues related to staffing, health inspections, and past complaints, with some nursing homes being cited for abuse. Awareness and understanding are crucial for families as they seek safe and quality care for residents.

Kansas City Families on Alert as One-Third of Nursing Homes Receive One-Star Ratings

Choosing a nursing home for a loved one can feel like navigating a maze, especially in the vibrant Kansas City area. With 97 nursing facilities located within just 25 miles of downtown, making the right choice is crucial—and challenging. Families often find themselves overwhelmed with decisions, especially when they discover recent news about nursing homes in the area.

A Closer Look at Nursing Home Ratings

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) plays a vital role in assessing nursing facilities based on several important factors. These include staffing levels, the results of past health inspections, and complaints lodged over the last three years. However, the unsettling news is that more than one-third of these nursing homes have received the lowest possible rating of one star from CMS. This is a significant concern for residents and their families.

Inspections and Concerns

Each year, nursing homes in both Missouri and Kansas are subjected to inspections. These evaluations not only look at the conditions of the facilities themselves but also focus on important aspects like residents’ well-being, the competence of staff members, and food safety. Alarmingly, some nursing homes have recently been identified as having issues related to abuse. CMS, however, does not disclose specific details about these incidents, which can leave families feeling uneasy.

Understanding Abuse in Nursing Facilities

According to CMS, abuse is defined as willful injury, unreasonable confinement, intimidation, or punishment that causes physical harm or mental anguish. This includes various forms of verbal, sexual, physical, and mental abuse. Knowing how to report suspected cases is crucial. In Missouri, concerned individuals can file reports through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services at 800-392-0210 or through an online form. Meanwhile, those in Kansas can reach out to the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services at 800-842-0078 or via email.

One-Star Rated Homes of Concern

As of February 26, 2025, a list of one-star nursing homes that have faced abuse citations includes:

Clara Manor Nursing Home, Kansas City
Parkway Health Care Center, Kansas City
Edgewood Manor Health Care Center, Raytown
The Rehabilitation Center of Independence, Independence
Jefferson Health Care, Lee’s Summit
Carnegie Village Rehabilitation & Health Care Center, Belton
Sunrise Nursing and Memory Care, Raymore
Riverbend Post Acute Rehabilitation, Kansas City, Kansas
Prairie Ridge Health and Rehabilitation, Overland Park
Excel Healthcare and Rehab, Overland Park
The Healthcare Resort of Olathe
Bonner Springs Nursing & Rehab Center, Bonner Springs

In total, additional nursing homes rated one star can be found in various locations, including:

Myers Nursing and Convalescent Center, Kansas City
The Summit, Kansas City
The Hilltop at Blue River, Kansas City
Ignite Medical Resort Carondelet, Kansas City
Alpine Breeze Health and Wellness, Raytown
Lee’s Summit Place
Kaw River Care and Rehab, Edwardsville
Shawnee Gardens Healthcare and Rehab Center, Shawnee Village
Good Samaritan Society – Olathe

Finding Five-Star Facilities

Fortunately, the Kansas City area is home to several nursing homes rated five stars by CMS, offering a stark contrast to the one-star facilities. These five-star homes include:

Jeanne Jugan Center, Kansas City
Linden Woods Village, Gladstone
Sharon Lane Health and Rehabilitation, Shawnee
Lakeview Village, Lenexa
Villa St Francis Catholic Care Center, Olathe
Nottingham Health and Rehabilitation, Olathe

Changes on the Horizon for Liberty Health and Wellness

As of March 2025, Liberty Health and Wellness will terminate its Medicaid agreement, leaving over 120 residents facing the daunting task of relocation. This situation has led to concerns among residents who are uncertain about their future placements. Staff members are working hard to ensure smooth transitions based on residents’ preferences, but challenges remain.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services made this call due to non-compliance with CMS requirements, which raises questions about the quality of care in the region. Reports cite systemic issues in Missouri, with many adults with mental health disabilities remaining in nursing facilities longer than necessary without the right support.

As the dust settles, families must stay informed and vigilant. Choosing a nursing home might seem overwhelming, but understanding the options available can lead to better decisions for loved ones.