By Esteban Fernandez, Times West Virginian
FAIRMONT, W.Va. — The planned privatization of the state’s four long term care facilities appalled members of the Marion County legislative delegation.
The Department of Health Facilities announced on July 12 it plans to sell and transfer the license of the state’s four long term care facilities, including the John Manchin Sr. Health Care Center in Fairmont.
“I think it’s a horrible, horrible idea to privatize an institution that works so well,” State Sen. Mike Caputo, D-13, said. “We have been fighting this battle for the last six or seven years, maybe longer, in the legislature. The legislature has spoken clearly throughout the years that they don’t want these facilities closed.”
The John Manchin Center primarily serves the state’s oldest, sickest and poorest seniors, according to State Sen. Mike Oliverio, R-13. The care is accessible to residents who can’t afford private care. Caputo pointed out Meals on Wheels that are distributed by the Marion County Senior Center for seniors also come from the Manchin Center.
The news caught some Marion County delegates and senators by surprise. Recently, a group of legislators took a tour of the facility and found it in good working order. However, the notion the state would try to find a way to offload the facilities didn’t come as a shock, since it’s something that’s failed several times.
“They’re trying an end run around here to privatize all of those beds for corporate profits,” Caputo said.
