A CMS investigation at Northern Light Blue Hill (Maine) Hospital failed to keep some medical records secure, properly sanitize dishes and maintain its fire suppression system, according to the Bangor Daily News.
The investigation was finalized July 17. Since then, Northern Light Blue Hill Hospital has submitted an acceptable correction plan. A representative from the hospital said Northern Light Blue Hill Hospital had finished correcting the problems Nov. 8.
"Northern Light Blue Hill Hospital addressed all items identified and successfully satisfied the conditions of participation within the timeframe allotted. We are proud of the outstanding accolades we continue to receive from national organizations with regard to quality and safety," Kelley Anne Columber, a spokesperson for the hospital, told Bangor Daily News.
On July 15, investigators found that patient records were being improperly stored in two of three inpatient units. Within the hospital's wound clinic, patient records were being kept in a closet that housekeeping and cleaning staff could access.
Patients' medical charts were also left unattended on nurses' desks within the hospital's special care unit. Northern Light Blue Hill Hospital also did not clean dishes at the recommended temperatures. The investigation also found the fire suppression system was not filled with enough water.
More articles on legal and regulatory issues:
Investment bank sues Georgia hospital for $4.7M in unpaid fees
Dignity Health must face class action over ER fees, court rules
Promise Healthcare accuses former CEO of interfering in hospital deal