Penacook Place declared deficiency-free by Department of Public Health

HAVERHILL – Penacook Place Nursing and Rehabilitation Center was found to be deficiency-free by the state Department of Public Health’s Division of Healthcare Quality. The division inspects Medicare and Medicaid certified nursing homes annually to assess compliance with federal standards of care. Inspectors evaluate administration, nursing care, resident rights, food service and the overall environment of each facility. Of the seven facilities in the city of Haverhill that were recently evaluated, Penacook was the only one to receive a perfect score of 132. The statewide average score is 123. Results are available for consumers who wish to research and compare facilities through the Survey Performance Tool for Nursing Homes at http://www.mass.gov/dph/qtool2.

Inspection surveys are unannounced. Those conducting the surveys are health care professionals such as registered nurses and licensed social workers.

“Penacook is fortunate to have a staff of caring, dedicated people who go above and beyond each day to provide residents with excellent care,” said President & CEO Julian Rich. “It’s a little daunting when a team shows up at your door unannounced to conduct a detailed survey of 132 different items, but I see every day how well staff members do their jobs and interact with residents. So, I’m pleased, but not surprised, that Penacook scored so well.”

A state-wide family survey released in 2007 mirrored the results of this most recent inspection. Family members of Penacook residents reported high overall satisfaction with the care their loved ones receive at Penacook.

         Located at 150 Water St., the 160-bed Penacook Place is the only not-for-profit nursing and rehabilitation facility serving the city of Haverhill. Penacook Place has a professional staff of 230 employees. Contributions that support the purchase of new equipment, renovations and resident activities can be made to the Friends of Penacook Fund, c/o Penacook Place, 150 Water St., Haverhill, MA, 01830.