Now there is more information than ever to assist families and individuals make choices about care needed by loved ones. In December, 2008, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced results of the new 5-Star Rating for all nursing homes in the United States. Goodall-Witcher Nursing Facility has been named a Five-Star Nursing Home placing it within the top 10% of all nursing homes.

The rating is based on the annual health inspection survey, staffing information, and quality of care measures. The Texas Department of State Health Services conducts the annual inspection survey. The focus of the survey is a comprehensive assessment of each nursing home in Texas to determine compliance with state and federal rules and laws. The staffing level review calculates the number of hours of nursing care per resident per day. There are 10-key quality indicators that identify how well a facility is providing care that affects quality of life of the residents.

Goodall-Witcher Nursing Facility is licensed and certified by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (TDADS). It is located on the first floor of the Goodall-Witcher Hospital building, with quick access to the Emergency Department, the Clifton Medical Clinic, and laboratory and x-ray services. Residents and their loved ones appreciate being “just down the hall” from medical care and their personal physician.

In addition to 24-hour nursing care from qualified nursing personnel to meet residents’ physical needs, the Social Worker provides support for emotional needs, and a Dietician assists with meeting nutritional needs. Occupational, physical and speech therapy are available for the resident requiring rehabilitation after an injury or illness. Volunteers from the community assist the Activity Director provide social interactions and entertainment for residents including crafts, lead hymn sings, tell stories, read poetry, conduct Sunday church services and many other activities.

The CMS Acting Administrator Kerry Weems said that the goal of the new rating program is to provide families a straightforward assessment of nursing home quality, with meaningful distinction between high and low performing homes. “The new information will also help consumers and families identify important questions to ask nursing homes...,” Weems said.

Some things in life are priceless...one of those is peace of mind. This is especially true of finding the best environment for the care of elderly parents, relatives and friends. The process of making this important decision includes visiting the facility, asking the staff about the care they provide, and speaking with residents who live there. Knowing that medical care is “just down the hall” may be just the peace of mind you are looking for.