MDH takes over Pine Island nursing home after unpaid staff, debts threaten care

(ABC 6 News) – The Minnesota Department of Health assumed control of Pine Haven Care Center Saturday, after unpaid bills threatened staffing and services for residents.

According to the MDH, the Ramsey County Court granted a temporary order Friday, June 10, allowing the department to ensure care at the facility while management and operations issues are addressed.

Residents and staff learned over the weekend that Pathway Health, a professional management organization, will control the facility for the near future.

The receivership cannot exceed 18 months.

“This rare step is one we do not take lightly, but the evidence indicated a need for immediate action to ensure that residents are safe and continue to receive essential services,” said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Jan Malcolm. “We are focused on a smooth transition and determining the next steps that will meet the needs of residents, staff, and families.”

The department of health stepped in after evidence mounted that the facility’s unpaid bills and inability to meet payroll threatened staffing, services, and medications for residents.

Pine Island Care Center has 52 residents, and is licensed to care for 18 more.