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Court orders Woodland Behavioral and Nursing Center in Sussex County into temporary receivership due to health, safety concerns

ANDOVER, NJ (Sussex County) – To ensure the health and safety of the residents of the Woodland Behavioral and Nursing Center in Andover, formerly Andover Subacute and Rehabilitation II facility, a Superior Court Judge Friday signed an order placing the nursing home in receivership, according to the New Jersey Department of Health.

The Receiver will control the facility’s finances and ensure that the operations of the facility continue uninterrupted during this transition period. Atlantic Health System, which was selected as monitor in March, will work with the Receiver to manage daily operations of the nursing home.

The court appointed Allen Wilen, a partner at the EisnerAmper and National Financial Advisory Services practice leader, as temporary Receiver consistent with the recommendation of the Departments of Health and Human Services. EisnerAmper is one of the largest accounting, tax, and business advisory firms in the U.S. The firm is nationally known for its expertise in healthcare and restructuring.

“The Receiver will ensure that employee paychecks are processed and staff retention policies and bonuses are implemented and will work with the State and other long-term care facilities to facilitate job placement for qualified individuals,” Wilen said.

“Ensuring the health, safety and dignity of the residents of this nursing home is the Department’s highest priority,” said Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli.  “The Department appreciates the dedication and commitment of Woodland employees during this transition period.”

“The judge’s decision recognizes the unprecedented gravity of this situation,” Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman said.  “We look forward to working with the Receiver to ensure the best possible care for Woodland residents.”

The Department selected Atlantic Health System as monitor of Woodland in March after citing the facility for significant health and safety violations. Despite guidance from the monitor and oversight from the state and federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the facility’s operators have failed to address and maintain adequate staffing levels and a safe environment of care.

On May 26, CMS notified the facility that its Medicare provider agreement will be terminated on June 25, 2022.

Since its appointment as monitor, Atlantic Health System has been conducting an onsite assessment of business practices, operations and infrastructure.

“The health and well-being of our community is the core purpose of our team. We will continue to do all we can through our steadfast partnership with the State to provide care and support for the residents and caregivers of Woodland,” said Brian Gragnolati, President & CEO, Atlantic Health System.

Jay Edwards

Born and raised in Northwest NJ, Jay has a degree in Communications and has had a life-long interest in local radio and various styles of music. Jay has held numerous jobs over the years such as stunt car driver, bartender, voice-over artist, traffic reporter (award winning), NY Yankee maintenance crewmember and peanut farm worker. His hobbies include mountain climbing, snowmobiling, cooking, performing stand-up comedy and he is an avid squirrel watcher. Jay has been a guest on America’s Morning Headquarters,program on The Weather Channel, and was interviewed by Sam Champion.

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