BARFIELD HEALTH CARE

22444 HIGHWAY 431, GUNTERSVILLE, AL 35976 (256) 582-3112
For profit - Corporation 113 Beds REHAB SELECT Data: November 2025
Trust Grade
90/100
#6 of 223 in AL
Last Inspection: April 2021

Over 2 years since last inspection. Current conditions may differ from available data.

Overview

Barfield Health Care in Guntersville, Alabama, has received an excellent Trust Grade of A, indicating a high level of care and service. Ranking #6 out of 223 facilities in Alabama places it well within the top tier, and it is the best option among the five nursing homes in Marshall County. However, the facility's performance is worsening, with the number of issues identified increasing from 1 in 2018 to 2 in 2021. Staffing has an average rating of 3 out of 5 stars, with a turnover rate of 55%, which is slightly above the state average, suggesting some staff instability. While there are no fines recorded, which is a positive sign, the facility has concerning RN coverage, less than that of 81% of other state facilities, which can impact the quality of care. Specific incidents of concern include a nurse failing to wear gloves during a blood sugar test, a staff member misappropriating residents' pain medication, and inadequate incontinence care for a resident, all of which raise potential health risks. Overall, while Barfield Health Care has strengths in its overall ratings and absence of fines, families should be aware of these weaknesses when considering this facility for their loved ones.

Trust Score
A
90/100
In Alabama
#6/223
Top 2%
Safety Record
Low Risk
No red flags
Inspections
Getting Worse
1 → 2 violations
Staff Stability
⚠ Watch
55% turnover. Above average. Higher turnover means staff may not know residents' routines.
Penalties
✓ Good
No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most Alabama facilities.
Skilled Nurses
⚠ Watch
Each resident gets only 29 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — below average for Alabama. Fewer RN minutes means fewer trained eyes watching for problems.
Violations
✓ Good
Only 3 deficiencies on record. Cleaner than most facilities. Minor issues only.
★★★★★
5.0
Overall Rating
★★★☆☆
3.0
Staff Levels
★★★★★
5.0
Care Quality
★★★★☆
4.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2018: 1 issues
2021: 2 issues

The Good

  • 5-Star Quality Measures · Strong clinical quality outcomes
  • Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
  • No fines on record

Facility shows strength in quality measures, fire safety.

The Bad

Staff Turnover: 55%

Near Alabama avg (46%)

Higher turnover may affect care consistency

Chain: REHAB SELECT

Part of a multi-facility chain

Ask about local staffing decisions and management

The Ugly 3 deficiencies on record

Apr 2021 2 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0602 (Tag F0602)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interviews, review of the facility's policy titled, Abuse Prevention, the facility's investigation file, and Resident I...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on interviews, review of the facility's policy titled, Abuse Prevention, the facility's investigation file, and Resident Identifier (RI) #48 and RI #56's medical record, the facility failed to ensure Employee Identifier (EI) #4, a Registered Nurse (RN) did not take for personal use and without the residents' permission narcotic pain medication which belonged to RI #48 and RI #56, two of four residents reviewed for narcotic pain medication. Findings include: The facility's policy titled, ABUSE PREVENTION, dated 11/28/2016, documented . IV. IDENTIFICATION . 3. Staff are trained on actual activities that would constitute abuse and they are but not limited to: . b. Misappropriation of resident property- The deliberate misplacement, exploitation, or wrongful, temporary, or permanent use of a resident's belongings or money without their consent . On 3/2/2021, the facility's Administrator reported to the State Agency an incident of misappropriation of resident property. According to the report, EI #4, a Registered Nurse (RN) took prescription medication that belonged to RI #48 and RI #56. The facility's INVESTIGATIVE SUMMARY, dated 3/1/2021, documented . CONCLUSION: Because (EI #4) failed her drug test through the Alabama Board of Nursing. Because (EI #4) admitted that since January 2021, she has been taking Norco and Percocet prescribed to residents (RI #56) and (RI #48) whom both reside at [NAME] Health Care, the allegation of Misappropriation of Resident Property is substantiated . RI #48 was admitted to the facility on [DATE], with diagnoses to include pain, dorsalgia (back pain) and collapsed vertebra. RI #48's Medication Administration Record for February 2021 revealed the resident had an order for Percocet 5 milligrams (mg) to be administered one tablet by mouth at 5:00 AM, 1:00 PM and 8:00 PM for pain. RI #56 was readmitted to the facility on [DATE], with diagnoses to include other chronic pain, gout, and spondylosis (osteoarthritis of the spine). RI #56's Medication Administration Record for January 2021 and February 2021 revealed the resident had an order for Norco 10 mg to be administered one tablet by mouth every 12 hours at 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM for pain. In an interview on 4/15/2021 at 11:36 AM, EI #1, the Director of Nursing (DON), was asked how she became aware of this incident. EI #1 stated that she received a text from EI #4, a RN. EI #1 said she called EI #4 back and EI #4 told her that she (EI #4) had failed her drug screen done by the Alabama Board of Nursing. According to EI #1, EI #4 was instructed by the Alabama Board of Nursing to call the facility to make them aware. EI #1 stated she called EI #4's probation officer at the Alabama Board of Nursing and was told the drugs EI #4 took came from the facility. According to EI #1, she and the Administrator, called EI #4 back and asked who she took the drugs from and EI #4 replied it was RI #48 and RI #56. During a telephone interview on 4/16/2021 at 12:24 PM, EI #4 stated she had worked in the facility since December 2020 during the 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM shift. EI #4 stated she resigned her position with the facility on 3/1/2021. When asked did she take narcotics belonging to any residents while employed at this facility, EI #4 said she did. When asked what medications she took from the residents, EI #4 stated she took RI #56's Norco and RI #48's Percocet. EI #4 was asked when she took these residents narcotic medications. EI #4 stated it started in January 2021. EI #4 was asked what it was considered when she took narcotics belonging to the residents. EI #4 answered, diverting drugs. When asked what it was considered if she took narcotics or anything else belonging to a resident, EI #4 replied, stealing and misappropriation of property. ************************* Once the facility became aware that EI #4, a RN, had admitted she took prescription medication that belonged to RI #48 and RI #56, the facility implemented the following corrective actions: * EI #4 was suspended and not allowed back to work pending the investigation findings. EI #4 last worked in the facility on 2/26/2021. EI #4's employment with the facility was terminated on 3/5/2021. * The facility timely reported the allegation and the subsequent findings to the Alabama Department of Public Health, the Alabama Board of Nursing, the local Police Department, the facility's Medical Director and the representatives of the residents involved. * The facility's licensed staff assessed the residents involved on 3/1/2021, for signs and symptoms of pain and none were voiced and/or observed. All other residents were assessed and interviewed with no concerns noted. * On 3/1/2021, the Director of Nursing reconciled all narcotic and all medications were accounted for. * The facility conducted staff in-service regarding Abuse Prevention, specific to Misappropriation of Resident Property. * The facility's Quality Assessment and Assurance Committee was made aware of the incident and will monitor the process of administering narcotics. ************************* After review of the facility's investigation file, in-service/education records, staff and resident interviews, and observation of the facility's acquisition, disposition and reconciliation of controlled and non-controlled medications, the facility implemented corrective actions from 3/1/2021 to 3/5/2021. This deficiency was cited as a result of the investigation of complaint/report number AL00041308.
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interviews, medical record review, and review of facility policy titled, CAPILLARY BLOOD SAMPLING, the fac...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interviews, medical record review, and review of facility policy titled, CAPILLARY BLOOD SAMPLING, the facility failed to ensure Employee Identifier (EI) #3, a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), wore gloves when she performed a fingerstick blood sugar (FSBS) on Resident Identifier (RI) #62, one of two residents observed for medication administration. Findings include: The facility's undated policy titled, CAPILLARY BLOOD SAMPLING, documented: . Procedure 1. Perform hand hygiene. 2. Wear gloves . RI #62 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. RI #62 has a medical history to include a diagnosis of Type II Diabetes Mellitus. During medication administration observation on 4/14/2021 at 5:17 PM, EI #3, a LPN, was to obtain RI #62's FSBS with her bare hands. EI #3 pricked the resident's forefinger with a lancet, wiped blood from resident's finger with a tissue, squeezed blood from RI #62's finger and then wiped it with an alcohol wipe, and removed the strip from the glucometer. EI #3 was then observed to wipe RI #62's abdomen with an alcohol wipe and inject Insulin into RI #62's abdomen without wearing gloves. On 4/14/2021 at 5:59 PM, an interview was conducted with EI #3, a LPN. When asked when she should wear gloves during medication pass, EI #3 stated she had been working with the residents for a long time and felt comfortable with them. EI #3 was asked how many residents she felt comfortable enough with not to wear gloves. EI #3 replied she did sometimes, but she just messed up. When asked what she was taught about wearing gloves during med pass, EI #3 stated she should put them on before she gave the medications, before she touched any medication, before any injection or FSBS or before touching the resident. EI #3 was asked did she apply gloves before giving RI #62 an insulin injection. EI #3 replied she did not. EI #3 was asked did she apply gloves before obtaining RI #62's FSBS. EI #3 responded no. EI #3 was asked what the concern was with not applying gloves when giving injections and obtaining FSBS. EI #3 said possible contamination and transmission of pathogens. In an interview on 4/15/2021 at 4:12 PM, EI #2, the Infection Preventionist acknowledged the nurse should wear gloves during a FSBS check. When asked what it would be considered when gloves were not worn, EI #2 responded infection control.
Sept 2018 1 deficiency
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Incontinence Care (Tag F0690)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interviews, medical record review, and a review of the facility's policy titled, Incontinence Care - ., th...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, interviews, medical record review, and a review of the facility's policy titled, Incontinence Care - ., the facility failed to ensure staff separated and thoroughly cleaned Resident Identifier (RI) #19's perineal area. This affected RI #19, one of one resident observed during incontinent care. RI #19 is a resident identified by the facility as having a history of Urinary Tract Infections ( UTIs). Findings Include: A review of the facility's policy titled, Incontinence Care - . dated 8/1/17, revealed the following: .PURPOSE: Good incontinence care helps prevent infection, irritation, and skin breakdown . RI #19 was admitted to the facility on [DATE], with diagnoses to include Constipation, Unspecified Urinary and Hypothyroidism. A review of RI #19's Significant Change Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE], revealed RI #19's Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 3, indicating cognition was severely impaired. The MDS also revealed RI #19 was totally dependent on staff for toilet use and personal hygiene and had a history of UTIs. On 9/06/18 at 11:20 AM, (EI) Employee Identifier #1, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and EI #2, CNA were observed performing incontinent care for RI #19. EI #1 performed the incontinent care for RI #19, while EI #2 assisted with positioning the resident. RI #19 had an incontinent bowel movement. EI #1 performed incontinent care for RI #19, but did not open the perineal area and clean. On 9/06/18 at 11:35 AM, the surveyor asked EI #1 if she was finished with the incontinent care for RI #19 and EI #1 said yes. The surveyor asked EI #1 if RI #19 was clean and she said, Yes. EI #1 was asked if she visualized RI #19's perineal opening and she said she did. The surveyor asked EI #2 if EI #1 visualized RI #19's perineal opening. EI #2 said, She (EI #1) did not separate as much as she should have to see it. EI #1 was asked what should be done since RI #19 had an incontinent bowel movement and she did not separate the perineal area and wipe. EI #1 said, Redo the incontinent care. EI #1 separated RI #19's perineal area and wiped with a wash cloth. The surveyor observed a discoloration was present to the wash cloth after EI #1 wiped RI #19's perineal area. The surveyor asked EI #1 what the discoloration was and she said, A little bowel movement. On 09/07/18 at 10:01 AM, EI #3, Director of Nursing (DON), and the surveyor reviewed the perineal care/incontinence care check-off sheet and the policy for incontinence care. The surveyor asked where in the policy did it instruct staff to wipe or observe the perineal opening. EI #3 stated, It just says to wipe downward stroke on the right and left (perineal area) and the meatus, if the right and left (perineal area) is spread to see the meatus, then the perineal opening would be visible. The surveyor informed EI #3 that the CNA did not have RI #19's legs separated to visualize the meatus or the perineal opening. The surveyor asked where on the skills check-off sheet did it indicate for staff to wipe the perineal opening or what should should be done in order to view it. EI # stated, It does not.
Understanding Severity Codes (click to expand)
Life-Threatening (Immediate Jeopardy)
J - Isolated K - Pattern L - Widespread
Actual Harm
G - Isolated H - Pattern I - Widespread
Potential for Harm
D - Isolated E - Pattern F - Widespread
No Harm (Minor)
A - Isolated B - Pattern C - Widespread

Questions to Ask on Your Visit

  • "Can I speak with families of current residents?"
  • "What's your RN coverage like on weekends and overnight?"

Our Honest Assessment

Strengths
  • • Grade A (90/100). Above average facility, better than most options in Alabama.
  • • No major safety red flags. No abuse findings, life-threatening violations, or SFF status.
  • • No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most Alabama facilities.
  • • Only 3 deficiencies on record. Cleaner than most facilities. Minor issues only.
Concerns
  • • No significant concerns identified. This facility shows no red flags across CMS ratings, staff turnover, or federal penalties.
Bottom line: Generally positive indicators. Standard due diligence and a personal visit recommended.

About This Facility

What is Barfield Health Care's CMS Rating?

CMS assigns BARFIELD HEALTH CARE an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars, which is considered much above average nationally. Within Alabama, this rating places the facility higher than 99% of the state's 100 nursing homes. This rating reflects solid performance across the metrics CMS uses to evaluate nursing home quality.

How is Barfield Health Care Staffed?

CMS rates BARFIELD HEALTH CARE's staffing level at 3 out of 5 stars, which is average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 55%, compared to the Alabama average of 46%.

What Have Inspectors Found at Barfield Health Care?

State health inspectors documented 3 deficiencies at BARFIELD HEALTH CARE during 2018 to 2021. These included: 3 with potential for harm.

Who Owns and Operates Barfield Health Care?

BARFIELD HEALTH CARE is owned by a for-profit company. For-profit facilities operate as businesses with obligations to shareholders or private owners. The facility is operated by REHAB SELECT, a chain that manages multiple nursing homes. With 113 certified beds and approximately 109 residents (about 96% occupancy), it is a mid-sized facility located in GUNTERSVILLE, Alabama.

How Does Barfield Health Care Compare to Other Alabama Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in Alabama, BARFIELD HEALTH CARE's overall rating (5 stars) is above the state average of 3.0, staff turnover (55%) is near the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (4 stars) is above the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Barfield Health Care?

Based on this facility's data, families visiting should ask: "Can I visit during a mealtime to observe dining assistance and food quality?" "How do you handle medical emergencies, and what is your hospital transfer rate?" "Can I speak with family members of current residents about their experience?"

Is Barfield Health Care Safe?

Based on CMS inspection data, BARFIELD HEALTH CARE has a clean safety record: no substantiated abuse findings (meaning no confirmed cases of resident harm), no Immediate Jeopardy citations (the most serious violation level indicating risk of serious injury or death), and is not on the Special Focus Facility watch list (a federal program monitoring the lowest-performing 1% of nursing homes). The facility has a 5-star overall rating and ranks #1 of 100 nursing homes in Alabama. While no facility is perfect, families should still ask about staff-to-resident ratios and recent inspection results during their visit.

Do Nurses at Barfield Health Care Stick Around?

BARFIELD HEALTH CARE has a staff turnover rate of 55%, which is 9 percentage points above the Alabama average of 46%. Moderate turnover is common in nursing homes, but families should still ask about staff tenure and how the facility maintains care continuity when employees leave.

Was Barfield Health Care Ever Fined?

BARFIELD HEALTH CARE has no federal fines on record. CMS issues fines when nursing homes fail to meet care standards or don't correct problems found during inspections. The absence of fines suggests the facility has either maintained compliance or corrected any issues before penalties were assessed. This is a positive indicator, though families should still review recent inspection reports for the full picture.

Is Barfield Health Care on Any Federal Watch List?

BARFIELD HEALTH CARE is not on any federal watch list. The most significant is the Special Focus Facility (SFF) program, which identifies the bottom 1% of nursing homes nationally based on persistent, serious quality problems. Not being on this list means the facility has avoided the pattern of deficiencies that triggers enhanced federal oversight. This is a positive indicator, though families should still review the facility's inspection history directly.