Senator Gallivan Urges Senate Health Committee to Investigate COVID-19 Crisis in Nursing Homes

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) is calling for the Senate Committee on Health to hold hearings on the impact the COVID-19 pandemic is having on nursing homes across New York State. While the virus is having a devastating impact on the health and safety of thousands of residents, one of the hardest hit communities is nursing homes and the residents and staff members who live and work in these facilities.                                                                       

"The exact number of deaths caused by COVID-19 among nursing home residents is unclear, but some reports indicate they have made up roughly one-fourth to one-fifth of the state’s total fatalities," Senator Gallivan said.  "Equally uncertain is the number of confirmed or presumed cases of the virus among residents and staff.  This is unacceptable."

Gallivan is the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health and says hearing should exam the following issues:

• How COVID-19 cases and deaths in nursing homes are reported
• The level of preparedness within nursing homes to deal with infection control, including availability of PPE, staffing levels and resources
• Current state oversight of nursing homes and whether it is adequate and appropriate
• Department of Health regulations and directives to nursing homes regarding COVID-19

Senator Gallivan says gathering this information will be vital in guiding the Committee and the Legislature in identifying problem areas and making recommendations to correct them, including the possibility of new legislation, oversight and budget allocations.

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