The Nathaniel Witherell is among the top 8 percent of U.S. skilled nursing home facilities to be recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a Best Nursing Home for 2021-2022. The Witherell earned the highest possible ranking for both its Short-term Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care services and facilities. Of the 13,175 nursing homes and 13,500 short-term rehabilitation centers evaluated across the nation, just 1,063 and 1,651 respectively, were designated as ‘High Performing.’
“We are honored to again be ranked among the top nursing homes and short-term rehabilitation facilities in the country,” said John Mastronardi, Executive Director of The Nathaniel Witherell. “This recognition reflects the extraordinary dedication, consistent high quality of care and compassion and kindness that our team gives to our short-term patients and long-term residents.”
Mr. Mastronardi points to two innovative programs that were implemented over the last few years that have been instrumental in receiving the Witherell’s high marks. The Falls Reduction Program spearheaded by Edward Omondi, RN, BSN, MBA, Director of Nursing, which pinpoints times during the day when falls are most likely to happen – due to fatigue or confusion – and provides engaging activities tailored specifically to residents that provide the extra support they need. And, the Respiratory Education Program, which significantly reduces admissions to the hospital by helping residents with issues like COPD, asthma, or pneumonia by providing them with the knowledge they need about caring for their respiratory issues.
“At the Witherell, we’re not just treating a condition, we’re supporting individuals who have reached a certain stage in their lives and require specialized care,” notes Mr. Mastronardi,. “Healthcare needs of older adults are complex, and individualized programs to support the well-being of the whole person is essential to keeping them safe, happy and healthy.”
U.S. News gives the designation of Best Nursing Home only to those that satisfy its assessment of the appropriate use of key services and consistent performance in quality measures. This year’s methodology includes an emphasis on homes meeting certain standards of patient safety, which had the effect of limiting certain homes’ ability to achieve a ‘High-Performing’ rating. These standards include a minimum threshold for the staff COVID-19 vaccination rate, decreasing the overuse of antipsychotic drugs and frequent visits to the emergency department, among other criteria. Homes that have below a 75% COVID-19 staff vaccination rate are not considered a leading facility. The Witherell’s staff vaccination rate is 98%.
For more information behind both U.S. News ratings please refer to the FAQ. To learn more about The Nathaniel Witherell, visit www.nathanielwitherell.org.
