Why nursing homes are taking COVID-19 patients

At least half the COVID-19 deaths in Pa., N.J. and Del. have been among nursing home residents. So why are some facilities knowingly letting in patients with the virus?

Air Date: May 19, 2020

Residents from St. Joseph's Senior Home are helped on to buses in Woodbridge, N.J., Wednesday, March 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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Residents at nursing homes and other longterm-care facilities make up at least half the COVID-19 deaths in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. And yet, some of these facilities are knowingly admitting patients recovering from the virus — deeply worrying residents and their loved ones. And while there are compelling financial and legal reasons for doing so, many nursing homes say they’re actually reluctant to take these patients in.

Guest: WHYY health reporter Nina Feldman

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