POLARIS HEALTHCARE AND REHABILITATION CENTER
Within standard 12-15 month inspection cycle. Federal law requires annual inspections.
Polaris Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center has received a Trust Grade of F, indicating significant concerns and a poor overall rating. It ranks #41 out of 43 facilities in Delaware, placing it in the bottom half, and #10 out of 11 in Sussex County, meaning only one local option is better. The facility's performance is worsening, with the number of issues increasing from 19 in 2024 to 41 in 2025. Staffing is below average, with a rating of 2 out of 5 stars and a concerning turnover rate of 67%, significantly higher than the state average of 42%. The facility has incurred $127,199 in fines, which is alarming and suggests repeated compliance problems. While it has average RN coverage that can help catch issues, there have been critical incidents reported, such as a resident not receiving necessary insulin due to delivery delays and another resident suffering from unrelieved pain for over sixty hours due to a lack of medication. Overall, while there are some strengths, the numerous serious deficiencies raise significant concerns for families considering this facility for their loved ones.
- Trust Score
- F
- In Delaware
- #41/43
- Safety Record
- High Risk
- Inspections
- Getting Worse
- Staff Stability ⚠ Watch
- 67% turnover. Above average. Higher turnover means staff may not know residents' routines.
- Penalties ⚠ Watch
- $127,199 in fines. Higher than 91% of Delaware facilities. Major compliance failures.
- Skilled Nurses ✓ Good
- Each resident gets 53 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — more than average for Delaware. RNs are trained to catch health problems early.
- Violations ⚠ Watch
- 89 deficiencies on record. Higher than average. Multiple issues found across inspections.
The Good
-
Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
-
No fines on record
Facility shows strength in fire safety.
The Bad
Below Delaware average (3.3)
Significant quality concerns identified by CMS
20pts above Delaware avg (46%)
Frequent staff changes - ask about care continuity
Well above median ($33,413)
Significant penalties indicating serious issues
Part of a multi-facility chain
Ask about local staffing decisions and management
19 points above Delaware average of 48%
The Ugly 89 deficiencies on record
Aug 2025
2 deficiencies
CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0726
(Tag F0726)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation, interviews, record review and other facility documentation, the facility failed to provide sufficient nursing staff to meet the needs of residents for 7 of 20 residents reviewed ...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Dental Services
(Tag F0791)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation, interview and record review, it was determined that for one (R6) out of three sampled residents for dental services, the facility failed to ensure the resident received dental se...
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Jan 2025
39 deficiencies
1 IJ (1 affecting multiple)
CRITICAL
(K)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) - the most serious Medicare violation
Deficiency F0760
(Tag F0760)
Someone could have died · This affected multiple residents
2. Review of R46's clinical record revealed:
11/17/22 - R46 was originally admitted to the facility with several diagnoses including diabetes.
11/15/24 - A physicians order was written for R46 to rec...
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SERIOUS
(G)
Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures
Deficiency F0697
(Tag F0697)
A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview, it was determined that for one (R85) out of three residents reviewed for pain, the facility failed to provide pain management according to professional standards ...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0561
(Tag F0561)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on interview and record review it was determined that for one (R85) out of thirty-seven residents reviewed in the investigative sample, the facility failed to ensure care preferences were being ...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0567
(Tag F0567)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for two (R43 and R79) out of three residents reviewed for personal funds the facility failed to ensure residents had access to the their fun...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0578
(Tag F0578)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on interview and record review, it was determined that for one (R81) out of five residents reviewed for Advance Directives, the facility failed to offer an opportunity to formulate an advance di...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Notification of Changes
(Tag F0580)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on interview and record review, it was determined that for one (R64) out of two residents reviewed for change in condition, the facility failed to consult the provider and notify the responsible...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Grievances
(Tag F0585)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on interview, record review and review of other facility documentation, it was determined that for one (R64) out of one reviewed for grievances, the facility failed to ensure that resident conce...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Report Alleged Abuse
(Tag F0609)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview, it was determined that for one (R18) out of two (2) residents reviewed for misappropriation of resident property, the facility failed to recognize and consequentl...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Investigate Abuse
(Tag F0610)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview, it was determined that for one (R18) out of two (2) residents reviewed for allegations of misappropriation of resident property, the facility failed to provide ev...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Transfer Requirements
(Tag F0622)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on interview, record review and review of other facility documents it was determined that for one (R148) out of three residents reviewed for discharge the facility failed to ensure that discharg...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0625
(Tag F0625)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 2. Review of R46's clinical record revealed:
11/10/24 8:29 AM - A progress note in R46's clinical record documented, Resident se...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Safe Transfer
(Tag F0626)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R148) out of three residents reviewed discharge the facilit...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0657
(Tag F0657)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it has been determined that the facility failed to review and revise for one (R85) out of thirty-seven sampled residents' care plans. Findings include:
A facility ...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0658
(Tag F0658)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview, it was determined that for two (R6 and R27) out of thirty seven residents sampled, the facility failed to provide services that meet professional standards of qua...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
ADL Care
(Tag F0677)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation and interview, it was determined that for one (R6) out of nine residents reviewed for ADLs, the facility failed to ensure ADLs were provided to dependent residents. Findings inclu...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Quality of Care
(Tag F0684)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on interview and record review, it was determined that for one (R64) out of two residents reviewed for change in condition, it was determined that the facility failed to follow physician orders....
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0688
(Tag F0688)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R37) out of two residents reviewed for ROM the facility failed to ensure that R37 received appropriate treatment and services to pr...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Accident Prevention
(Tag F0689)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R47) out of two residents reviewed for accidents the facility failed to provide supervision for R47 to prevent an accident. The res...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Incontinence Care
(Tag F0690)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
5. Review of R3's clinical record revealed:
A CDC recommendation to prevent infection included: Maintain the bag below the level of the bladder. (https://www.cdc.gov Indwelling Urinary Catheter Insert...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0692
(Tag F0692)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview, it was determined that for two (R11 and R91) out of two residents reviewed for tube feeding the facility failed to implement current professional standards of pra...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Respiratory Care
(Tag F0695)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation, interview and record review it was determined that for four (R10, R29, R67 and R80) out of seven residents sampled for respiratory care the facility failed to provide respiratory...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0710
(Tag F0710)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on interview and record review and other documentation as indicated, it was determined that for one (R300) out of five reviewed residents for pressure ulcers, the facility failed to ensure that ...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0730
(Tag F0730)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (E39) out of five CNA's reviewed for annual performance reviews, the facility failed to ensure that the annual performance review wa...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Pharmacy Services
(Tag F0755)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R32) out of one resident reviewed for medication administration, the facility failed to provide pharmacy services to refill medicat...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Medication Errors
(Tag F0758)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R27) out of five residents reviewed for unnecessary medications, the facility failed to limit an as needed (PRN) psychotropic medic...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0761
(Tag F0761)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based observation, interview and review of other facility documentation, it was determined that for three out of five medication...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0773
(Tag F0773)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview, it was determined, for one (R64) out of four residents sampled for laboratory services, the facility failed to promptly notify the ordering medical practitioner o...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Dental Services
(Tag F0791)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation, interview and record review, it was determined that for one (R27) out of seven sampled residents for dental services, the facility failed to assist the residents in obtaining rou...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0805
(Tag F0805)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation and interview it was determined that for one (R64) out of one residents reviewed for nutrition the facility failed to provide fluid in a form designed to meet the individuals need...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Food Safety
(Tag F0812)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation and interview it was determined that the facility failed to ensure food was stored, prepared, and served in...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Medical Records
(Tag F0842)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview, it was determined that for one (R500) out of thirty-four (34) residents reviewed, the facility failed to ensure the residents medical record was complete, accurat...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0941
(Tag F0941)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for two (E28 and E49) out of six employees reviewed, the facility failed to ensure that mandatory communication training was completed. Find...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0942
(Tag F0942)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interviews it was determined that for two (E29 and E30) of out of six employees reviewed, the facility failed to ensure resident rights training was ongoing. Findings includ...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0944
(Tag F0944)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for two (E28 and E47) out of six employees reviewed, the facility failed to ensure that staff completed QAPI training. Findings include:
1/1...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0945
(Tag F0945)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for two (E29 and E30) out of six employees reviewed for required training the facility failed to ensure that infection control training was ...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0946
(Tag F0946)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for three (E28, E29, and E30) out of six employees reviewed, the facility failed to ensure that annual training of the compliance and ethics...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0947
(Tag F0947)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for four (E30, E32, E39, and E40) out of five CNA'S reviewed, the facility failed to ensure that the required minimum twelve hours of in-ser...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0949
(Tag F0949)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for two (E28 and E29) out of six staff reviewed, the facility failed to ensure that required behavioral health training was completed in acc...
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CONCERN
(E)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Comprehensive Care Plan
(Tag F0656)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for eight (R3, R4, R27, R46, R57, R63, R89 and R91) out of thirty-seven residents investigated the facility failed to develop person centere...
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Jul 2024
2 deficiencies
CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0660
(Tag F0660)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R2) out five residents reviewed for discharge the facility failed to implement an effective discharge plan that addressed R2's need...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0745
(Tag F0745)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R2) out of five residents reviewed for discharge the facili...
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Apr 2024
17 deficiencies
1 Harm
SERIOUS
(G)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures
Accident Prevention
(Tag F0689)
A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident
Based on interviews, record review and review of facility documentation, it was determined that for one (R57) out of five residents reviewed for accidents, the facility failed to ensure residents were...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Resident Rights
(Tag F0550)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
3. Review of R57's clinical record revealed:
7/13/23 - R57's quarterly MDS documented that R57 had a documented BIMS score of 15, revealing an intact cognitive state and was totally dependent of two s...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0552
(Tag F0552)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Review of the facility policy titled, Change in a Resident's Condition or Status last dated 2/2021 documented . 1. Our facility promptly notifies the resident, his or her attending physician, and the ...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0558
(Tag F0558)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
2. Review of R57's clinical record revealed:
10/11/22 - R57 was readmitted to the facility with diagnoses including but not limited to quadriplegia, spinal muscular atrophy, morbid obesity and tracheo...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0582
(Tag F0582)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview, it was determined that for one (R287) out of three residents reviewed for discharge the facility failed to provide R286 the Notice to Medicare Provider Non-Covera...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Report Alleged Abuse
(Tag F0609)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R53) out of three residents reviewed for abuse the facility failed to recognize and immediately report an allegation of abuse. Find...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Assessment Accuracy
(Tag F0641)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R42) out of five residents reviewed for medication review the facility failed to ensure accuracy of the MDS assessment. Findings...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0645
(Tag F0645)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on interview, and record review it has been determined that for one (R68) out of one resident reviewed for PASARR, the facility failed to ensure a referral for a new PASARR Level I and II screen...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Comprehensive Care Plan
(Tag F0656)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R42) out of five residents reviewed for medication review the facility failed to develop a care plan to address the residents use o...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0657
(Tag F0657)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
4. Review of R75's clincal record revealed:
3/8/24 - R75 was admitted to the facility.
4/3/24 - A review of R75's care plan meeting lacked evidence of input from a CNA, dietary, activities, and the m...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Pressure Ulcer Prevention
(Tag F0686)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observations, interviews and record review, it was determined that for two (R24 and R57) out of four residents reviewed for position and mobility, the facility failed to turn and reposition t...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Incontinence Care
(Tag F0690)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation, interview and record review it was determined that for one (R75) out of one resident reviewed for incontinence, the facility failed to respond to or provide services to restore b...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Respiratory Care
(Tag F0695)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
2. Review of R3's clinical record revealed:
8/25/22 - R3 was admitted to the facility with diagnoses including but not limited to acute respiratory failure, difficulty swallowing and hypertension.
11/...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Drug Regimen Review
(Tag F0756)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R42) out of five residents reviewed for medication review the facility failed to ensure pharmacist recommendations were reviewed by...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Medication Errors
(Tag F0758)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R42) out of five residents reviewed for medication review the facility failed to complete AIMS testing every six months for a resid...
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CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Food Safety
(Tag F0812)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
Based on observation it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that all nourishment refrigerators were maintained in a sanitary condition and food is stored safely to prevent food-borne ill...
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MINOR
(B)
Minor Issue - procedural, no safety impact
Safe Environment
(Tag F0584)
Minor procedural issue · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation and interview it was determined that for one (room [ROOM NUMBER]) out of 59 rooms observed the facility fai...
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Mar 2023
3 deficiencies
CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Notification of Changes
(Tag F0580)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interview, it was determined for one (R1) out of three sampled residents, the facility failed to make...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Transfer Notice
(Tag F0623)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview, it was determined that for one (R4) out of three residents reviewed for a change in condition, the facility failed to notify the Ombudsman when R4 was transferred...
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CONCERN
(D)
📢 Someone Reported This
A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Quality of Care
(Tag F0684)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, interview, and other facility documentation as indicated, it was determined that for one (R1) out of thr...
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Oct 2022
26 deficiencies
CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Resident Rights
(Tag F0550)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation and interview, it was determined the facility failed to ensure that residents were treated with respect and dignity for two (R21 and R45) during random observations. Findings incl...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Notification of Changes
(Tag F0580)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review, interview, and review of facility policy and procedure, it was determined that for one (R100) out of four residents reviewed for respiratory services, the facility failed to en...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0583
(Tag F0583)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on a random observation and interview, it was determined that for one (R22) resident, the facility failed to secure her confidential medical records. Findings include:
During an observation on 1...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Report Alleged Abuse
(Tag F0609)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review, interview and review of the facility policy, it was determined that for one (R8) out of one resident reviewed for abuse, the facility failed to report an allegation of abuse im...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0655
(Tag F0655)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
2. Review of R105's clinical record revealed:
9/21/22 - R105 was admitted to the facility.
During an interview on 10/6/22 at 12:29 PM FM4 answered no, to receiving a copy of R105's care plans and stat...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0657
(Tag F0657)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview, it was determined that for two (R45 and R5) out of 25 residents reviewed care plans, the facility failed to conduct an IDT (Interdisciplinary Team) care plan meet...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
ADL Care
(Tag F0677)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation, interview, and record review, it was determined that for two (R45 and R101) out of five sampled residents reviewed for activities of daily living the facility failed to maintain ...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0685
(Tag F0685)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview, it was determined that for one (R22) out of two residents sampled for hearing/vision, the facility failed to ensure that R22 received proper treatment to maintain...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Respiratory Care
(Tag F0695)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
4. Cross Refer F657, example #3
Review of R22's record revealed the following:
A facility policy titled, CPAP/BIPAP (bi-level positive airway pressure) Support revised March 2015, stated, Review the p...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0698
(Tag F0698)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R105) out of one resident reviewed for dialysis the facility failed to ensure dialysis services were received when R105 missed a sc...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Pharmacy Services
(Tag F0755)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for two out of three sampled medication carts the facility failed to ensure that an account of all controlled drugs were maintained. Finding...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Medication Errors
(Tag F0758)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R104) out of five residents sampled for unnecessary medications the facility failed to limit a PRN (as needed) psychotropic medicat...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Dental Services
(Tag F0791)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on observation, interview, record review and review of the facility's policy, it was determined that for two (R45 and R21) out of four residents reviewed for dental services, the facility failed...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0825
(Tag F0825)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R105) out of two residents reviewed for rehabilitation services the facility failed to ensure speech services were provided in acco...
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CONCERN
(D)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0887
(Tag F0887)
Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident
Based on record review and interview it was determined that for one (R28) out of five residents reviewed for COVID -19 vaccination the facility failed to provide evidence that COVID-19 vaccination was...
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CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Safe Environment
(Tag F0584)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on random observation and interview it was determined that the facility failed to keep temperatures at a comfortable level...
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CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Grievances
(Tag F0585)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
Based on interview, observation, and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to make the information available to residents regarding how to file a grievance or complaint anonymously...
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CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0625
(Tag F0625)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
3. Cross Refer F623 Ex. # 2
Review of R103's clinical record revealed:
3/2/22 - R103 was admitted to the facility.
R103's progress notes documented that the resident was transferred to the hospital o...
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CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Comprehensive Care Plan
(Tag F0656)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 5. Cross Refer F685
Review of R22's clinical records revealed the following:
1/18/22 - R22 was admitted to the facility.
R22's...
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CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Quality of Care
(Tag F0684)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
4. Review of R102's clinical record revealed:
8/18/22 - R102 tested positive for COVID 19.
8/18/22- An order was written for R102 to receive Paxlovid tablet therapy for respiratory infection due to CO...
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CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Drug Regimen Review
(Tag F0756)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
4. Review of R21's clinical record revealed the following:
9/21 through 9/22 - The review of the facility's monthly regimen review (MRR) report, the monthly Pharmacist Consultant Resident Recommendat...
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CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Deficiency F0761
(Tag F0761)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 5. [DATE] 8:26 AM - The medication room on the unit was observed with the entry door opened and medications visible on the count...
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CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Medical Records
(Tag F0842)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, interview and review of other documentation as necessary, it was determined that for four (R9, R22, R25,...
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CONCERN
(E)
Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed
Infection Control
(Tag F0880)
Could have caused harm · This affected multiple residents
Based on observation, interview, and review of other documentation as indicated, it was determined that the facility failed to maintain an effective infection prevention and control program by failing...
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MINOR
(B)
Minor Issue - procedural, no safety impact
Transfer Notice
(Tag F0623)
Minor procedural issue · This affected multiple residents
2. Cross Refer F625 Ex. # 3
Review of R103's clinical record revealed:
3/2/22 - R103 was admitted to the facility.
Review of R103's nurse progress notes revealed that R103 was transferred to the hops...
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MINOR
(C)
Minor Issue - procedural, no safety impact
Staffing Information
(Tag F0732)
Minor procedural issue · This affected most or all residents
Based on observation and interview it was determined that for three out of three units the facility failed to ensure the nurse staff data posting requirement was accurate and complete. Findings includ...
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Understanding Severity Codes (click to expand)
Questions to Ask on Your Visit
- "What changes have you made since the serious inspection findings?"
- "Why is there high staff turnover? How do you retain staff?"
- "Can I speak with families of current residents?"
- "What's your RN coverage like on weekends and overnight?"
Our Honest Assessment
- • Licensed and certified facility. Meets minimum state requirements.
- • Multiple safety concerns identified: 1 life-threatening violation(s), Special Focus Facility, 2 harm violation(s), $127,199 in fines. Review inspection reports carefully.
- • 89 deficiencies on record, including 1 critical (life-threatening) violation. These warrant careful review before choosing this facility.
- • $127,199 in fines. Extremely high, among the most fined facilities in Delaware. Major compliance failures.
- • Grade F (0/100). Below average facility with significant concerns.
About This Facility
What is Polaris Healthcare And Rehabilitation Center's CMS Rating?
CMS assigns POLARIS HEALTHCARE AND REHABILITATION CENTER an overall rating of 1 out of 5 stars, which is considered much below average nationally. Within Delaware, this rating places the facility higher than 0% of the state's 100 nursing homes. A rating at this level reflects concerns identified through health inspections, staffing assessments, or quality measures that families should carefully consider.
How is Polaris Healthcare And Rehabilitation Center Staffed?
CMS rates POLARIS HEALTHCARE AND REHABILITATION CENTER's staffing level at 2 out of 5 stars, which is below average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 67%, which is 20 percentage points above the Delaware average of 46%. High turnover can affect care consistency as new staff learn residents' individual needs. RN turnover specifically is 67%, which is notably high. RNs provide skilled clinical oversight, so turnover in this role can affect medical care quality.
What Have Inspectors Found at Polaris Healthcare And Rehabilitation Center?
State health inspectors documented 89 deficiencies at POLARIS HEALTHCARE AND REHABILITATION CENTER during 2022 to 2025. These included: 1 Immediate Jeopardy (the most serious level, indicating potential for serious harm or death), 2 that caused actual resident harm, 83 with potential for harm, and 3 minor or isolated issues. Immediate Jeopardy findings are rare and represent the most serious regulatory concerns. They require immediate corrective action.
Who Owns and Operates Polaris Healthcare And Rehabilitation Center?
POLARIS HEALTHCARE AND REHABILITATION CENTER 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 NATIONWIDE HEALTHCARE SERVICES, a chain that manages multiple nursing homes. With 100 certified beds and approximately 91 residents (about 91% occupancy), it is a mid-sized facility located in MILFORD, Delaware.
How Does Polaris Healthcare And Rehabilitation Center Compare to Other Delaware Nursing Homes?
Compared to the 100 nursing homes in Delaware, POLARIS HEALTHCARE AND REHABILITATION CENTER's overall rating (1 stars) is below the state average of 3.3, staff turnover (67%) is significantly higher than the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (1 stars) is much below the national benchmark.
What Should Families Ask When Visiting Polaris Healthcare And Rehabilitation Center?
Based on this facility's data, families visiting should ask: "What changes have been made since the serious inspection findings, and how are you preventing similar issues?" "How do you ensure continuity of care given staff turnover, and what is your staff retention strategy?" "Can you walk me through typical staffing levels on day, evening, and night shifts?" "Can I visit during a mealtime to observe dining assistance and food quality?" These questions are particularly relevant given the facility's Immediate Jeopardy citations, the facility's high staff turnover rate, and the below-average staffing rating.
Is Polaris Healthcare And Rehabilitation Center Safe?
Based on CMS inspection data, POLARIS HEALTHCARE AND REHABILITATION CENTER has documented safety concerns. Inspectors have issued 1 Immediate Jeopardy citation (the most serious violation level indicating risk of serious injury or death). The facility is currently on the Special Focus Facility watch list (a federal program monitoring the lowest-performing 1% of nursing homes nationwide). The facility has a 1-star overall rating and ranks #100 of 100 nursing homes in Delaware. Families considering this facility should ask detailed questions about what corrective actions have been taken since these incidents.
Do Nurses at Polaris Healthcare And Rehabilitation Center Stick Around?
Staff turnover at POLARIS HEALTHCARE AND REHABILITATION CENTER is high. At 67%, the facility is 20 percentage points above the Delaware average of 46%. Registered Nurse turnover is particularly concerning at 67%. RNs handle complex medical decisions and coordinate care — frequent RN changes can directly impact care quality. High turnover means new staff may not know residents' individual needs, medications, or preferences. It can also be disorienting for residents, especially those with dementia who rely on familiar faces. Families should ask: What is causing the turnover? What retention programs are in place? How do you ensure care continuity during staff transitions?
Was Polaris Healthcare And Rehabilitation Center Ever Fined?
POLARIS HEALTHCARE AND REHABILITATION CENTER has been fined $127,199 across 2 penalty actions. This is 3.7x the Delaware average of $34,351. Fines at this level are uncommon and typically indicate a pattern of serious deficiencies, repeated violations, or failure to correct problems promptly. CMS reserves penalties of this magnitude for facilities that pose significant, documented risk to resident health or safety. Families should request specific documentation of what issues led to these fines and what systemic changes have been implemented.
Is Polaris Healthcare And Rehabilitation Center on Any Federal Watch List?
POLARIS HEALTHCARE AND REHABILITATION CENTER is currently an SFF Candidate, meaning CMS has identified it as potentially qualifying for the Special Focus Facility watch list. SFF Candidates have a history of serious deficiencies but haven't yet reached the threshold for full SFF designation. The facility is being monitored more closely — if problems continue, it may be added to the official watch list. Families should ask what the facility is doing to address the issues that led to this status.