Assisted living company allegedly under federal investigation

Emeritus Senior Living is being investigated by the federal government for allegations of improper Medicaid billing and other matters, according to investigative journalism outlet ProPublica.

Emeritus spokeswoman Karen Lucas told ProPublica that the company is “cooperating fully” with authorities from the U.S. Department Justice and the Department of Health and Human Services.

The country’s largest assisted living company was the subject of a 2013 ProPublica/PBS Frontline series that included the documentary “Life and Death in Assisted Living.” The television show focused on several resident deaths at Emeritus communities.

The company says it has the ability to provide assisted living and memory care provider services to almost 54,000 residents. More than 31,000 employees support more than 500 communities throughout 45 states.

Emeritus Corp. and Brookdale Senior Living recently announced plans to merge in a $2.8 billion deal that includes $1.4 million of Emeritus mortgage debt. The pact is expected to be finalized later this year.

I Advance Senior Care

I Advance Senior Care is the industry-leading source for practical, in-depth, business-building, and resident care information for owners, executives, administrators, and directors of nursing at assisted living communities, skilled nursing facilities, post-acute facilities, and continuing care retirement communities. The I Advance Senior Care editorial team and industry experts provide market analysis, strategic direction, policy commentary, clinical best-practices, business management, and technology breakthroughs.

I Advance Senior Care is part of the Institute for the Advancement of Senior Care and published by Plain-English Health Care.