More than 2,200 coronavirus deaths in nursing homes, but federal government isn't tracking them

[left-of-center2012]

Nearly 2,500 long-term care facilities in 36 states are battling coronavirus cases, according to data gathered by NBC News from state agencies, an explosive increase of 522 percent compared to a federal tally just 10 days ago.

The total dwarfs the last federal estimate on March 30 — based on “informal outreach” to state health departments — that more than 400 nursing homes had at least one case of the virus.

Nursing home residents are among those most likely to die from the coronavirus, given their advanced age and the prevalence of other health conditions. But the federal government does not keep a formal tally of the number of coronavirus deaths in nursing homes or the number of facilities with infections, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.

“It’s critical to have accurate information about which nursing homes have residents with confirmed cases of COVID-19,” she said, referring to the disease caused by the coronavirus, “and which facilities need more staff and personal protective equipment, so that states can target additional resources where the need is greatest.”

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services — the division of the federal government that oversees long-term care facilities — said states must comply with state and local reporting requirements for coronavirus cases. The agency referred questions to the CDC, which declined to comment. Some states with the largest coronavirus outbreaks — including California, Michigan and Pennsylvania — did not provide the total number of deaths in long-term care facilities.

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/more-2-200-coronavirus-deaths-nursing-homes-federal-government-isn-n1181026

[leftyladyfrommo]

1. Well, they were on their last legs anyway.

Who gives a fuck about a bunch of old people just sitting around waiting to die.

[bluestarone]

2. Not all BUT most have family members.

Just gotta hope they WILL NOT let their loved ones die un-noticed!! I sure as fuck would make it known!

[MustLoveBeagles]

3. Rachel discussed this on her show

It's criminal what is happening.

[crickets]

4. K&R for visibility.

[Windy City Charlie]

5. I'm hearing both sides

Some people will say the deaths are being over-reported and some say it's being under-reported. I tend to think they're being under-reported due to the lack of testing.