Ohio Governor Mike DeWine made public last week a list of nursing homes and assisted living facilities in the state that have not asked for the COVID-19 vaccine or said that their staff and residents have been vaccinated. According to the Statehouse News Bureau, more than 6,900 COVID deaths have occurred in Ohio nursing homes, 38% of deaths in the entire state.
DeWine said that some facilities have not let the state know whether they need the vaccine or made their own arrangements, though they’ve been asked by state officials repeatedly. Locally, Monarch Meadows Nursing and Rehabilitation was the only facility in Adams County that was named on the list.
“I’m to the end of my rope with them, frankly. I don’t know what else to do but to make this information public,” said Governor DeWine. “I think people have a right to know if these facilities are not availing themselves of something that the state is providing that will save lives.” An email from the Informer seeking comment was sent to Monarch Meadows Nursing and Rehabilitation and hasn’t been answered regarding the matter.
DeWine said that 90% of all nursing home residents have been vaccinated since they were among the first to get access to the vaccine in December. The numbers are lower for staff.
According to the state of Ohio, rates of nursing home staff taking the vaccine are much lower than resident rates. A recent survey from a large nursing home chain reported 61% of staff had been vaccinated. The group that lobbies for nursing homes in Ohio said last month that around half of nursing home staffers are still turning down the vaccine.
The Ohio Department of Aging has created the Ohio COVID-19 Vaccine Maintenance Program for facilities to help ensure residents and employees have access to vaccinations. To date, over 200 nursing homes and assisted living facilities have not opted into the program or confirmed how they will provide vaccinations.
Monarch Meadows Nursing and Rehabilitation is owned by Continuing Healthcare Solutions. The Middleburg, Ohio based company has locations throughout Ohio.
