U.S. Representative Conor Lamb is calling for an investigation into Pennsylvania's oversight of the coronavirus outbreak at Brighton Rehab and Wellness Center in Beaver County.
The Democratic congressman sent a letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) requesting an immediate investigation into the performance of the facility’s management. The CMS found that Brighton Rehab did not fully implement proper infection prevention and control practices.
Lamb also wants a review of allegations that claim residents were given hydroxychloroquine without state approval.
In his letter Lamb wrote, "These findings were included in a State inspection report and directly violate State nursing home regulations that prevent experimental research or treatment without approval from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and from each resident after full disclosure. Additionally, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not authorized the use of hydroxychloroquine outside of a hospital setting due to serious side effects."
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Lamb also said that it doesn't appear the Department of Health has taken any disciplinary action toward the rehab facility for their use of the drug. "For this reason, I request you investigate the State’s response to this unnecessary tragedy at Brighton, the two State-appointed Temporary Managers’ responses, if Brighton is now complying with proper infection prevention and control practices, and if Brighton’s residents are safely receiving quality care."
The medical director for Brighton, Dr. David Thimons, denied the State's report and said the Brighton medical team discussed plans in a meeting April 10 with the state where, “they granted us their consent and approval.” He also said they had full consent form residents or legal guardians.
You can read the congressman's full letter here.
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