Wernick Adult Day Health Care Achieves Deficiency-free Survey
LONGMEADOW — In January, Wernick Adult Day Health Care of JGS Lifecare earned a deficiency-free survey from the state Department of Public Health (DPH), meeting all degrees of competency for the state’s new licensure requirements.
The rules, enacted in January 2015, require all adult day health programs be inspected every other year by DPH, and sets regulatory standards that include staffing levels, infection-control measures, and dementia programming. The licensure process is required by all ADHPs (adult day health programs) operating or seeking to operate in the state of Massachusetts, ensuring the protection of all participants and the quality and reputation of the services they receive.
“In achieving this deficiency-free survey and licensure, Wernick Adult Day Health Care has demonstrated its commitment to quality, person-centered adult day healthcare,” said Anne Thomas, vice president of residential health, JGS Lifecare. “Licensure and regulation is a positive and logical step for ADHP growth and quality control in the Commonwealth, and we are truly proud of these outstanding results.”
Wernick Adult Day Health Care was one of the first adult day health care centers in Western Mass. Dedicated by Zane and Dottie Wernick, the therapeutic adult day healthcare program was established in 1976, serving 15 people a day. Today, Wernick welcomes up to 33 participants daily for personalized, skilled care that includes the only certified music therapy in the region.
“We are a leader in adult day health care in Western Mass., and proud to receive our licensure,” said Darlene Francis, executive vice president, Wernick Adult Day Health Care. “It’s a wonderful example of our commitment to provide excellent care to our participants, and we are grateful to all of our staff for their amazing dedication and caring.”
Wernick’s comprehensive program aims to care for loved ones in a positive, dynamic setting that promotes social interaction and stimulation. Each participant receives skilled nursing, personalized care, and monitoring of vital signs. Wernick also provides recreational activities, nutritious meals and snacks, and transportation.