Admissions To Pigeon Forge Care And Rehabilitation Center Suspended

Sevier County Nursing Home Cited For Violations

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Department of Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN, has suspended new admissions of residents to the Pigeon Forge Care and Rehabilitation Center effective May 26, 2009, and imposed a one-time state civil monetary penalty of $3,000. The state also has recommended that the federal civil penalty be imposed at $4,550 a day until the violations are corrected. A special monitor has been appointed to review the facility’s operations.

Pigeon Forge Care and Rehabilitation, a 120-bed licensed nursing home located at 415 Cole Drive in Pigeon Forge, was ordered not to admit any new residents based on conditions found during a complaint investigation conducted April 20 through May 11. The investigation was complete May 26. During the survey, surveyors found violations of the following standards: administration, performance improvement, and resident rights.

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.