19 Mariner Health SNFs Hit With Staffing Injunction, Dismissal Allegations

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California-based operator Mariner Health Care Inc. received a preliminary injunction on Friday for 19 of its buildings, for allegedly violating federal and state laws over a five-year period.

Mariner was understaffed at its facilities and subjected patients to negligent care, according to allegations filed by Rob Bonta, state attorney general and district attorneys for Alameda, Los Angeles, Marin and Santa Cruz counties.

State entities also allege that Mariner inflated his SNF ratings at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The claims violate the state’s unfair competition law and false advertising law, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said in a statement.

Nineteen Mariner facilities were named in the dismissal allegations, while five were mentioned in connection with state staffing laws.

Deborah Pacyna, spokesperson for Mariner and former director of public affairs for the California Association of Health Facilities (CAHF), said in an email to Skilled Nursing News that the operator is reviewing the courts’ decision and considering an appeal. of the injunction.

Mariner Health Care remains committed to providing the best possible care around the clock to ensure the continued safety and well-being of our residents, Pacyna said in a statement.

The operator manages 20 properties in the state, according to its website.

On January 6, the Alameda County Superior Court issued the injunction, authorizing the surveillance of five Mariner properties to ensure compliance with state personnel laws. The injunction also authorizes monitoring of the 19 properties, ensuring compliance with federal and state landfill regulations.

The Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse (DMFEA) and district attorneys in the above counties originally filed a civil complaint against the 19 facilities and Mariner on April 8, 2021. Mariner facilities must report compliance from the April 1, 2023, according to the injunction filing. Pending trial or other court orders, compliance monitors will also be appointed at facilities.

The preliminary injunction will establish an independent monitor to protect patients, Bonta said in a statement.

The injunction will ensure residents of these facilities receive proper care in a safe environment, Los Angeles County Attorney George Gascn added in a statement.

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