After a series of highly critical Miami Herald stories about the state’s oversight of Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs), the Agency for Health Care Administration said Tuesday it took action against 46 ALFs in May.
In a news release, the agency said it assessed more than $125,000 in fines against 44 ALFs for failing to comply with state standards. Also, it issued moratoriums on admissions for two ALFS and issued one emergency suspension order.
As an indication of the sensitivity of the issue, Gov. Rick Scott and AHCA Secretary Liz Dudek issued statements about protecting ALF residents.
“I am committed to making sure the people who rely on these facilities are protected,” Scott said. “In early May I called on the agencies that oversee our state’s assisted living facilities to take action against any abuses or neglect, and I am happy to see they’ve answered that call.”
Added Dudek: “Under Governor Scott’s direction, we are working with our partners (the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, the Department of Children and Families and the Department of Elder Affairs) to monitor these facilities closer than ever. Assisted living facilities have a responsibility to provide a safe and secure environment for their residents. We will continue with vigorous enforcement to assure providers are held accountable to keep the residents in their facilities healthy and safe.”
