Operator of six Central Mass. nursing homes settles patient allegations
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Parsons Hill Rehabilitation & Health Care Center in Worcester
Athena Health Care Systems, which operates six skilled nursing facilities in Central Massachusetts, has settled allegations it turned away patients seeking treatment for opioid addiction.
The settlement, announced by the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Tuesday, compels Athena to adopt a non-discrimination policy, providing training on Americans with Disabilities Act and opioid use disorder guidelines, and pay a $10,000 civil penalty, among other steps.
Athena has 16 nursing facilities in the state, including six in Central Massachusetts: Lanessa Extended Care in Webster; Marlborough Hills Rehabilitation & Health Care Center; Parsons Hill Rehabilitation & Health Care Center in Worcester; Southbridge Rehabilitation & Health Care Center; Webster Manor Rehabilitation & Health Care Center; and Worcester Rehabilitation & Health Care Center.
According to two complaints filed with U.S. Attorney Andrew Lelling’s office, individuals seeking admission at Athena facilities were denied because they were being treated with buprenorphine, a medication used to treat opioid addiction.
The individuals were seeking admission for health issues unrelated to their addiction, but required the facilities administer their buprenorphine, sold under the brand name Subutex, among others, as they would administer any other medication. Individuals receiving treatment for opioid addiction are generally considered disabled under the Americans with Disabilities Act, according to Lelling's office.
Connecticut-based Athena released a statement on the settlement: “As the U.S. Attorney’s Office acknowledged in its statement, which we appreciate, Athena fully cooperated with the investigation and has ensured that our policies fully comply with the ADA."
"Athena and its managed centers share in the struggle with individuals and families facing opioid addiction and other substance use disorders and will continue to provide much needed care and services," the company said. "We look forward to continuing our mission of providing quality care and great customer service to our patients and their families.”
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