A resident of the John Manchin Sr. Health Care Center in Fairmont has taken legal action following the announcement of the facility’s sale. On October 31, 2023, the resident filed a 30-day notice of intent to sue against Governor Patrick Morrisey and Secretary Michael Caruso of the Department of Health Facilities. This step comes just two weeks after the governor revealed plans to sell the Manchin Health Care Center, along with three other long-term care facilities, to Marx Development Group.
The decision to transfer ownership of the health care center has raised concerns among residents and their families. Many individuals have expressed apprehension about the potential impact on the quality of care and the overall management of the facilities under new ownership. The legal notice indicates that the resident believes the sale may infringe on rights or protections afforded to the individuals living in the center.
In his announcement, Governor Morrisey emphasized that the sale aims to enhance the quality of care provided in these facilities through improved management and resources. He stated that the decision was made with the intention of benefiting residents by allowing for a more robust operational framework. Nonetheless, the impending lawsuit underscores a significant level of dissatisfaction among the resident community regarding the sale process and its implications.
The John Manchin Sr. Health Care Center has long been a staple in Fairmont, providing essential health care services to vulnerable populations. The transition to new ownership has prompted questions about how the change will affect staffing, resident care, and the facility’s commitment to its mission. Advocates for residents are particularly concerned about ensuring that the needs of the elderly and disabled population remain a priority during and after this transition.
As the legal process unfolds, it remains to be seen how the lawsuit will impact the sale and what responses will come from the state officials involved. The outcome may set a precedent for how such facility sales are conducted in the future, particularly regarding transparency and community involvement.
In the coming weeks, stakeholders from various sectors, including government officials, legal representatives, and community advocates, will likely engage in discussions about the implications of the sale and the ongoing concerns raised by residents. As the situation develops, the focus will be on safeguarding the rights and well-being of those who call the John Manchin Sr. Health Care Center home.