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In March 2020, former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued a directive requiring nursing homes to accept patients infected with coronavirus as long as the nursing home represented it could safely care for the resident. However, this influx of sick patients overwhelmingly increased the number of elderly deaths within these facilities and both the former Governor and the nursing homes failed to ensure the safety of nursing home residents.
New York Attorney General Letitia James issued in a report titled the Nursing Home Response to COVID-19 Pandemic in 2021. The report documented that under Cuomo, The Department of Health drastically undercounted the number of COVID-19 nursing home deaths. Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo underreported deaths on nursing homes by as much as 50%.
After a year of misinformation, the actual numbers were revealed in March 2021. The State of New York reported the correct number of 15,000 nursing home deaths, which was the highest number in the country at that time.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Independent Investigation
The disappointment, anger, and sadness New Yorkers feel for the loss of so many elderly residents has brought Gov. Kathy Hochul to announce an open independent investigation into former Gov. Cuomo’s inadequate and alarming COVID-19 response.
A third-party auditor will have until late 2023 to investigate and deliver the final report on the findings. The investigation consists of a review of the issues regarding transferring nursing home patients, opening businesses and schools, purchasing medical supplies, and a planning guide for future emergencies.
While Hochul hopes the investigation will showcase the failures of New York’s COVID-19 response and highlight any openings for necessary changes, many criticize the long wait for this investigation. Many also wonder what new information they are looking to uncover, as Attorney General Letitia James has investigated these discrepancies.
Elder Abuse Attorney John Dalli’s Response to Hochul’s Investigation
Another issue of concern involves the flow of information and just who will have access to the results of the investigation. In an article written on the issue by the Associated Press, attorney John Dalli was quoted regarding the fact that the report and the flow of information, including all conclusions reached, are controlled by the governor’s office and not an independent commission.
Another concern is that the investigators will not have subpoena power and many question if all of the facts will come out in this investigation. Attorney John Dalli continues to speak on the concerning route of information in the below news segment.
Fox News Headlines 24/7 – Attorney John Dalli speaks about Gov Hochul Covid-Nursing Home Deaths investigation
With years of experience protecting and advocating on behalf of nursing home patients, Attorney John Dalli voices his doubt on the investigative powers of the auditor. He is not alone in his suspicions about the extent the investigator will search into the misdoings of those involved in the lack of proper response. Attorney John Dalli believes that nursing home owners and their lobbyists may have their hands in the failed coronavirus response and should be held accountable for their actions.
Reach Out to Dalli & Marino, LLP to Learn More About Elder Abuse
New York residents have been through continuous challenges and deserve to express their grievances and pain. With so many nursing home deaths covered up, Attorney John Dalli believes that other possible negligence cases have been swept under the rug.
If you suspect your loved one is suffering from elder abuse and negligence in New York state, schedule a consultation with Dalli & Marino, LLP. Call (888) 465-8790 or fill out our contact form for more information on how we can fight for your rights.
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