Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin has issued an order ensuring some of Virginia’s most vulnerable residents receive the highest standards of care.
Executive Order 52 establishes the Nursing Home Oversight and Accountability Advisory Board, which includes experienced providers, geriatricians, advocates, and external stakeholders dedicated to the safety, quality, and transparency of nursing home facilities, Youngkin announced Friday.
“Every Virginian deserves to know that their loved ones are safe, respected, and receiving the highest standard of care in our nursing homes,” Youngkin said. “This Advisory Board will strengthen oversight, promote transparency, and deliver solutions that protect our most vulnerable seniors. By bringing together providers, advocates, and experts, we are ensuring that families can have confidence their loved ones are cared for with dignity and compassion.”
The board is overseen by the Virginia Department of Health, and its responsibilities include advising on quality initiatives to raise standards in nursing homes and recommending policies and practices to enhance resident well-being and quality of care.
“Supporting the needs of our older adults remains a top priority for my administration,” Youngkin continued. “This initiative will carefully evaluate the full spectrum of aging and caregiving challenges, focusing on creating well-rounded solutions that address care deficiencies and improve access for our seniors.”
The board will further make recommendations on budgetary, legislative, and administrative measures aimed at strengthening the quality of nursing homes and increasing oversight throughout the state.
“In order to attain lasting success with these efforts, we must keep patient care at the center of our collective efforts,” Secretary of Health and Human Resources Janet V. Kelly said.
There are approximately 33,000 residents in nearly 300 licensed nursing home facilities across the state, with most eligible to receive federal funding.
The Virginia Department of Health’s Office of Licensure and Certification is responsible for the inspection of these rest homes, ensuring they are in compliance with federal and state regulations. But the office faces staffing shortages, with a 42% vacancy rate. With the increased number of complaints received, the shortage has led to delays and operational challenges.
“Caring for and protecting our elderly population is a responsibility that we take seriously. We are committed to communities where every Virginian can receive care with dignity, safety, and respect,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. Karen Shelton.
The department is, however, launching a comprehensive plan focused on recruitment, transparency, new technology to address complaints, and inspector training.
The new board will guide improvements and are backed by the state Legislature to fully fund inspector positions and allow the State Health Commissioner to provide greater enforcement authority.
