New York
Sullivan County nursing home residents and families sue over abrupt closure
Residents, families and workers at the county-run Sullivan County Adult Care Center have sued to stop its closure, saying officials skipped public hearings and state closure rules, while five local judges have stepped aside from the case.
Key facts
- The Times Union reported on September 16 that residents, family members and employees of the Sullivan County Adult Care Center in Liberty, also called the Care Center at Sunset Lake, filed a lawsuit in state Supreme Court opposing its closure.
- Families learned of the plan from social media rumors on August 18; county and state officials confirmed it in a news release the next day.
- The lawsuit alleges county officials concealed the process by not holding a public hearing or vote and did not follow state rules for nursing home closures.
What happened
The Times Union reported on September 16 that residents, family members and employees of the Sullivan County Adult Care Center in Liberty, also called the Care Center at Sunset Lake, filed a lawsuit in state Supreme Court opposing its closure. Families learned of the plan from social media rumors on August 18; county and state officials confirmed it in a news release the next day.
The lawsuit alleges county officials concealed the process by not holding a public hearing or vote and did not follow state rules for nursing home closures. Five judges recused themselves from the case that week, court records show. One resident's sister told the paper, "The county hadn't given us any idea."
What it means for families
When a nursing home closes, residents usually have to move, sometimes far from family. New York has rules for how closures and relocations must happen, and families have a right to be part of that planning.
For example: a resident who has lived in the home for five years may be offered a bed in another county. Families can ask for options closer to home and for time to visit before agreeing.
Quick answers
Why are families suing over the Sullivan County nursing home closure?
The lawsuit alleges county officials concealed the process by not holding a public hearing or vote and did not follow state rules for nursing home closures. Five judges recused themselves from the case that week, court records show. One resident's sister told the paper, "The county hadn't given us any idea."
What to do this week
- If your relative's nursing home announces a closure, ask for the written closure and relocation plan approved by the state.
- Ask for a list of open beds in nearby homes and visit before agreeing to a move.
- Contact the New York Long Term Care Ombudsman Program for free help with your relative's rights during a move.
- Ask your relative's doctor or care team to send an updated care summary and medication list with them if they are moved.
Sources
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