ADHS issues notice of intent to revoke license of Hacienda Healthcare

PHOENIX — The Arizona Department of Health Services has issued a Notice of Intent to Revoke Hacienda Healthcare’s license.

The ADHS’ decision Friday night comes after a Hacienda patient was found with maggots under his bandage near an incision.

“Based on findings from a recent survey and an extremely disturbing incident involving inadequate patient care that was reported to and investigated by ADHS this week, the department has determined strong and immediate action is necessary to further protect the Hacienda ICF-IID residents,” the ADHS statement read.

According to the ADHS press release, Hacienda will have the chance to respond and battle the loss of license.

“The Notice of Intent to Revoke allows for the Department to have increased accountability and oversight of the facility and does not mean Hacienda must immediately shut down,” the statement read.

“ADHS will continue to work with the Hacienda ICF-IID to ensure there is no interruption of services. The Notice does not impact other facilities managed by Hacienda Healthcare, Inc.”

The patients residing at the healthcare facility will be allowed to remain at Hacienda, per ADHS.

“While this action is necessary to ensure the health and safety of the residents at Hacienda, ADHS understands this may cause concern to the families with loved ones at the Hacienda ICF-IID as this is the only home many of the patients have known,” the ADHS statement read.

“ADHS staff will be on site at the Hacienda ICF-IID and working with other state agencies to make sure that patients and families are receiving the quality and compassionate care they deserve.”

Friday marks the latest news regarding Hacienda.

In January, a licensed practical nurse at the facility was accused of sexually assaulting an incapacitated patient who was found to be pregnant. Nathan Sutherland, 36, was arrested after police said his DNA was linked to the baby of the 29-year-old patient. The baby was born at the Phoenix facility in December.

The full statement can be read below:

The Notice of Intent to Revoke allows for the Department to have increased accountability and oversight of the facility and does not mean Hacienda must immediately shut down. ADHS will continue to work with the Hacienda ICF-IID to ensure there is no interruption of services. The Notice does not impact other facilities managed by Hacienda Healthcare, Inc.

While this action is necessary to ensure the health and safety of the residents at Hacienda, ADHS understands this may cause concern to the families with loved ones at the Hacienda ICF-IID as this is the only home many of the patients have known. ADHS staff will be on site at the Hacienda ICF-IID and working with other state agencies to make sure that patients and families are receiving the quality and compassionate care they deserve.

The health and safety of the residents of the Hacienda ICF-IID remain a top priority of ADHS. The State’s goal is to ensure they continue to live in a safe environment and maintain the continuity of care for these vulnerable residents.

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