Report outlines problems at New Mexico veterans' home

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A lack of oversight within the New Mexico Department of Health likely was a factor in high COVID-19 infection and death rates among residents at the New Mexico State Veterans’ Home, according to a review by legislative analysts.

Members of the Legislative Finance Committee discussed the report, which was made public this week, during its meeting Wednesday.

The report noted that multiple independent reviews found failure to follow proper infection control and personal protective equipment procedures at the nursing home despite early guidance from state health officials. Also, a pattern of deficiencies has cost the facility over $180,000 in federal penalties since 2015.

Lawmakers described the findings as discouraging.

Democratic Sen. Nancy Rodriguez of Santa Fe said the conditions at the Truth or Consequences veterans home — where 28 residents died of COVID-19, according to federal data — are “unacceptable.” The facility houses four disabled veterans to a room, she said.

“It’s unconscionable and we must change that,” Rodriguez said.

The report recommended that the health department take immediate action to ensure staff follow best practices regarding use of protective equipment. That would include refresher training, real-time coaching and random auditing.

The analysts also recommended that the department develop a systemwide facilities master plan that includes an assessment of needs for all services currently offered. They said it should include options for replacing the Veterans’ Home with federal support and consolidating substance abuse treatment centers.

Executives under Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said they largely agree with the recommendations and are taking steps to address the findings, the Albuquerque Journal reported. They said the...