Morris Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center

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Our utmost priority is the health and safety of our residents, staff, and visitors. 

 

In light of concerns surrounding coronavirus (COVID-19), we want to keep you informed of proactive measures we are implementing to protect against exposure and prepare for the possible spread of illness. We are closely monitoring announcements from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and New York Department of Health (DOH) and following agency guidance.

 

Please note that we are constantly evaluating our policies and protocols in light of any new information, and we will do our best to keep you aware of changes by updating this notice.

 

STEPS MORRIS PARK REHABILITATION AND NURSING CENTER IS TAKING

Prior to concerns about COVID-19, we had infection prevention and control procedures in place to maximize the health and safety of the vulnerable population we serve. We have enhanced our existing protocols to minimize the risk of exposure and to provide clinical and operational personnel the information and tools necessary to address the situation as it evolves.

The following is a summary of measures undertaken to date consistent with regulatory guidance:

 

INTERDISCIPLINARY TASK FORCE

Led by our Medical Director and Director of Nursing, our interdisciplinary team is in constant communication working together to develop efficient and effective procedures and protocols to minimize the risk of exposure and prepare for possible spread.

 

We monitor and have been communicating with DOH and other regulators as well as trade associations and other health care providers to obtain the most up to date information to allow us to evaluate and implement the most effective prevention and control protocols.

 

RESIDENT MONITORING

Our clinicians are vigilantly monitoring resident health.

 

We have trained our staff to identify residents who might be at risk of COVID-19 and are prepared to institute precautions for these residents if the need arises.

 

EMPLOYEE AND CONTRACTOR SCREENING

We are screening employees and contractors for symptoms or potential exposure to COVID-19 to prevent the introduction of the COVID-19 infection.

 

FACILITY MAINTENANCE

We have increased the frequency of cleaning on high touch surfaces and high trafficked public areas with hospital-grade bleach disinfectant. This is done daily, and in many areas, multiple times a day.

 

We have made hand sanitizer readily available for residents, visitors and staff.

 

VISITATION

We are happy to share with you that at this time we are open to visitation by appointment only. The Morris Park team continues to work closely with the local New York Health Department and CDC to ensure the safety of our loved ones.

 

For the safety of our staff, residents and visitors, all Visitors must either present a negative PCR Covid-19 test result from within the past 72 hours or utilize the facilities rapid testing to meet the testing requirements. Visitation will be refused if the Visitor fails to present a negative COVID test result, exhibits any COVID 19 symptoms or does not pass screening questions.

 

In addition to in-person visitation we will continue to offer virtual meetings between family and loved ones , up to this point we are happy to state that there have been nearly 1,000 calls completed here at our facility. If you have any interest in scheduling a virtual visit with your loved ones please contact 718-231-4300 for an appointment to be scheduled.

 

If you are interested in scheduling an in-person visit or have any questions about visitation guidelines please contact social services at 718-231-4300 or email socialservices@morris-park.com.

We appreciate your understanding and for choosing Morris Park to care for your loved ones.

 

Please see link: INDOOR VISITATION (March 18, 2020).

If you have any questions about the visitation limits, please call 718-231-4300 or email Socialservices@morris-park.com.

 
VOLUNTEERS AND NON-ESSENTIAL VENDORS

We have advised volunteers and non-essential vendors to refrain from participating in programs at this time.

 

Our deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who have passed away from the COVID-19 virus. A virus that disproportionately and virulently affected those in our community of advanced age and frailty and we are deeply saddened by the collective loss. As of May 21, 2020, Morris Park has mourned 28 residents from COVID-19 related illness.

 

We are heartened that at this time the number of new positive cases is decreasing, many long-term residents are recovering from the virus, and some post-acute patients are returning home. Also, staff who have been sick are returning to service. This gives us hope.

 

BELOW ARE HELPFUL LINKS.

CDC Response To Frequently Asked Questions
NY State COVID-19 Info
NYC Health COVID-19 Info
CoronaVirus.org

 
NEW YORK STATE COVID-19 EMOTIONAL SUPPORT HELPLINE

Supporting others through COVID-19 isn’t easy as healthcare workers and first responders are on the front lines of the COVID-19 emergency. The Department of Health (DOH) set up an Emotional Support Helpline to help with anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, and grief. Call for free and confidential support. 1.844.863.9314, 8 am – 10 pm, 7 days a week.

 

COVID-19 RESOURCES

The situation is evolving rapidly. Please see the links below for the most up-to-date information.

 

PROPER HAND-WASHING TECHNIQUE

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) Click Here
What You Need To Know About Handwashing Click Here

OFFICIAL INFORMATION ON (COVID-19)

NYC Dept. of Health (COVID-19) Updates Click Here
COVID-19 Quick Updates for NYS Click Here
CDC- Symptom Checker & Coronavirus Testing Info Click Here

 
MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

NY State Free Emotinal Support & Referral Hotline (844) 863-9314 – Staffed by 6,000 mental health professional volunteers
NYC Well Free text, chat, call support 24/7 Click Here
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Emergency and Crisis Services Click Here
National Suicide Prevention 24/7 Lifeline: (800) 273-TALK
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: Taking care of your mental health in the face of uncertainty Click Here

 
EVICTION PREVENTION SERVICES

BronxWorks – Free Eviction Prevention Services Click Here

Catholic Charities
Provides assistance with eviction prevention, emergency shelter, & affordable housing regardless of religious affiliation Click Here
Coalition for the Homeless: Searchable database of housing resources Click Here

 
HUNGER PREVENTION

Hunger Free NYC – All 5 Boroughs (English/Espanol) Click Here
Feeding Our Neighbors Pantry List– Manhattan, Bronx, Staten Island Click Here

 
ACCESS TO TECHNOLOGY

Altice USA: 60 days free wifi Click Here
Families must apply
Comcast: 60 days free wifi Click Here
Families must apply
Spectrum: 60 days free wifi Click Here
Families must apply
Map of LinkNYC & Free Wifi Hotspots Click Here

A HALF A CENTURY OF LOVE. FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS.

We’ve been caring for seniors like you since 1971. And there’s nothing that makes us prouder.

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Proud Participant of the Montefiore Skilled Nursing Collaborative.

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ABOUT US

Located on one of Pelham Parkway’s most scenic stretches, Morris Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center was founded in 1971 by a beloved father and grandfather—a visionary and family man determined to give seniors the kind of care he’d want himself.

QUICK LINKS
contact us

1235 Pelham Parkway North,
Bronx, New York 10469

718.231.4300

718.881.3534

avitacco@morris-park.com

Copyright © 2023 Morris Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center | Site by SkyCare MEDIA

SOMMER LEE ESPINO, RNC, DIRECTOR OF NURSING

MISSION: Lead, educate, and evaluate all nursing operations and collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to ensure efficient and compassionate delivery of resident care.

 

IN OTHER WORDS: Oversee every detail of nursing to make sure you get the care you need.

 

BACKGROUND: Bachelor’s in Nursing with a postgraduate degree in Maternal & Child Health. Over 30 years of experience as a nurse (more than 20 years in long-term care!) Certified in PRI, MDS, ACLS/BCLS, and Infection Control.

 

I TAKE PRIDE IN: my leadership skills. An effective leader adapts to each person’s needs — directing, teaching, supporting, and delegating, depending on each staff member’s level of competence and commitment. Most importantly, an effective leader communicates, making sure the listener hears them by speaking in their language.

Working in this setting has made me realize this is where I belong. As a nurse, nothing is more fulfilling than seeing your patient heal and improve, day by day. In long-term care, residents come to us in their most vulnerable state and stay for a long time. This gives us a chance to build meaningful relationships with them so that when they’re ready to leave, they’ve become our family.

KRUNAL BHATT, PT, MS, DIRECTOR OF REHAB

MISSION: Manage all aspects of the rehabilitation department. Coordinate with all therapy disciplines to ensure superlative delivery of care.

 

IN OTHER WORDS: Ensure every patient gets a customized, effective rehab plan that works.

 

BACKGROUND: Bachelor in Physical Therapy. Masters in Sports Science. 8 years experience in skilled nursing facilities, providing therapy to patients with a wide range of diagnoses.

 

I TAKE PRIDE IN: my ability to relate to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Honestly, Morris Park feels like a second home. The staff is very close-knit, and we share a common goal: make the facility feel like home for our residents.

Jasmine Torres, DIRECTOR OF HOUSEKEEPING

MISSION: Assess proposed admissions for appropriate placement, consulting with nursing, administrative, and therapy personnel as needed. Provide facility tours for prospective clients and families.

 

IN OTHER WORDS: Make your transition to Morris Park as smooth and comfortable as possible.

 

BACKGROUND: Extensive experience in concierge services for seniors.

 

I TAKE PRIDE IN: my professionalism and broad knowledge base in my department. I am always willing to go the extra mile.

It’s a pleasure being part of Morris Park’s success. Seeing our residents transition in such a positive way fills my heart with joy.

ANGELA VITACCO, DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES & CORPORATE COMPLIANCE

MISSION: Hire & retain exceptional staff members, oversee their training and quality scores, and cultivate an overall culture of cooperation and respect.

 

IN OTHER WORDS: Develop and implement smooth processes so all you notice is the harmony of a well-oiled (and completely compliant) team. Create and nurture an environment where staff, residents, and the community at large work to understand each other, despite our differences.

 

BACKGROUND: MS in Human Resources Management with 25+ years of human resources experience in a variety of industries (media & entertainment, healthcare and pharmaceutical).

 

I TAKE PRIDE IN: my ability to listen. Facts are important, but sometimes it’s more important to listen and try to understand what someone is feeling in order to help them find the best possible solution.

I love being a resource and safe space for employees. Knowing I can make a difference, provide comfort or simply put a smile on someone’s face makes it all worthwhile. It’s more than simply leading; it’s leading with heart. My door is always open. Stop by anytime!