For the first time in its 60-plus-year history, Holy Family Senior Living (HFSL) in Bethlehem achieved a zero-deficiency rating from the Pennsylvania Department of Health during its annual inspection, meeting the rigorous requirements of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
This rare distinction means the healthcare facility was found to be in full compliance with all state and federal regulations governing care, services, and the overall environment – without a single deficiency identified. The result reflects the facility’s commitment to the highest standards of safety, quality, and resident care.
“All skilled nursing facilities in Pennsylvania must meet these requirements, but achieving zero deficiencies is an extraordinary accomplishment,” said George Abdouche, Holy Family’s nursing home Administrator. “We have the highest standard of care for our residents.”
At the time of the three-day inspection – which Abdouche described as “very rigorous” and “a deep dive” into policies, procedures, staffing, and services – HFSL was home to more than 110 residents, including retired priests and religious sisters.
In most inspections, facilities found to have issues are required to submit a Plan of Correction detailing how they will address deficiencies. HFSL, however, required no such plan.
Abdouche credits this to the work which he, Director of Nursing Susan Park, and their entire team have put in over the past three years to “perfect” procedures and processes.
“It comes down to the great teamwork we have here,” he said of the more than 100 staff members. “They are passionate and compassionate at the same time. Their commitment, dedication, and professionalism are what make this possible.”
He recounted examples of staff going above and beyond – such as a unit manager coming in on her day off to help feed residents, and team members giving gifts to residents for holidays and special occasions.
A ministry of the Diocese of Allentown, HFSL offers a continuum of care for older adults, including independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation services – allowing residents to transition seamlessly between levels of care as their needs change.
Founded in the early 1960s, Holy Family Manor was entrusted to the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood by Bishop Joseph McShea, the first Bishop of the Diocese of Allentown. The facility sits on property once owned by Eugene Grace, president of Bethlehem Steel 1916-45.
In addition to the zero-deficiency recognition, HFSL also earned certification earlier this year from the American Heart Association (AHA) for excellence in heart failure care – one of only nine facilities in Pennsylvania to receive this designation. The certification affirms that Holy Family follows AHA guidelines to ensure coordinated, high-quality care for residents recovering from heart failure.
For more information about HFSL, go to their website www.holyfamilysl.org.
By Gia Myers
