The Navajo Nation's only nursing home, which caters to nearly 80 elderly patients, is at risk of being shut down as the facility faces a hefty fine over safety code violations.
The Gallup Independent reports that Chinle Nursing Home CEO, Wayne Claw, says they owe nearly $200,000 because the aged building doesn't meet the Native American Center for Medicare/Medicaid Services requirements. The nursing home may lose its license, which Claw says could force elderly patients to relocate off the Navajo Nation.
Navajo Nation President Russell Begaye in a statement said there are plans to build a new nursing home that could serve 120 Navajo elders and could cost about $29 million.
But Claw hopes something is done soon, as the nursing home may close sooner than the 2016 projection.
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Information from: Gallup Independent.
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