BAPTIST VILLAGE, INC.

2650 CARSWELL AVE, WAYCROSS, GA 31502 (912) 283-7050
Non profit - Church related 254 Beds Independent Data: November 2025
Trust Grade
78/100
#49 of 353 in GA
Last Inspection: September 2024

Within standard 12-15 month inspection cycle. Federal law requires annual inspections.

Overview

Baptist Village, Inc. in Waycross, Georgia has received a Trust Grade of B, indicating it is a good facility, solid but not top-tier. It ranks #49 out of 353 nursing homes in Georgia, placing it in the top half, and is the best option among the three facilities in Ware County. The facility's trend appears stable with 3 issues noted in both 2023 and 2024, suggesting no recent decline in quality. Staffing is a mix; it has an average rating of 3 out of 5 stars, with a turnover rate of 40%, which is better than the state average of 47%, but they have less RN coverage than 90% of Georgia facilities, which could impact care quality. However, there are some concerning incidents. For instance, the facility has not designated a qualified Infection Preventionist, which is crucial for controlling infections. Additionally, two residents with urinary catheters were found without proper coverage, affecting their dignity, and care plan interventions for two residents were not followed, risking their treatment needs not being met. Overall, while there are strengths in staffing stability, the facility has notable weaknesses that families should consider.

Trust Score
B
78/100
In Georgia
#49/353
Top 13%
Safety Record
Low Risk
No red flags
Inspections
Holding Steady
3 → 3 violations
Staff Stability
○ Average
40% turnover. Near Georgia's 48% average. Typical for the industry.
Penalties
○ Average
$10,218 in fines. Higher than 71% of Georgia facilities. Some compliance issues.
Skilled Nurses
⚠ Watch
Each resident gets only 20 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — below average for Georgia. Fewer RN minutes means fewer trained eyes watching for problems.
Violations
○ Average
6 deficiencies on record. Average for a facility this size. Mostly minor or procedural issues.
★★★★☆
4.0
Overall Rating
★★★☆☆
3.0
Staff Levels
★★☆☆☆
2.0
Care Quality
★★★★☆
4.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2023: 3 issues
2024: 3 issues

The Good

  • Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
  • No fines on record
  • Staff turnover below average (40%)

    8 points below Georgia average of 48%

Facility shows strength in fire safety.

The Bad

Staff Turnover: 40%

Near Georgia avg (46%)

Typical for the industry

Federal Fines: $10,218

Below median ($33,413)

Minor penalties assessed

The Ugly 6 deficiencies on record

Sept 2024 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

Resident Rights (Tag F0550)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, staff interviews, record review, and review of the facility policy titled Urinary Catheter Care, the faci...

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, staff interviews, record review, and review of the facility policy titled Urinary Catheter Care, the facility failed to ensure urinary catheter drainage bags were covered to protect the dignity of two of four sampled residents (R) (R71 and R94) with indwelling urinary catheters. This failure had the potential to diminish R71 and R94's quality of life in an environment that promotes the maintenance or enhancement of each resident's quality of life. Findings include: A review of the facility's policy titled Urinary Catheter Care, revised 12/27/2023, revealed 2. Catheter tubing and bag: d. Use a catheter bag cover to protect the resident's dignity. 1. A review of R71's Quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment dated [DATE] revealed section H (Bladder and Bowel) documented the resident did not have an indwelling urinary catheter. A review of the Physician's Orders revealed an order dated 9/14/2024 for a urinary catheter and catheter care every shift. A review of the comprehensive care plan revealed a focus area for an indwelling urinary catheter with a diagnosis of neuromuscular dysfunction of the bladder. An observation on 9/17/2024 at 11:49 am revealed R71 lying in bed with a catheter drainage bag uncovered, exposing R71's urine to other residents and visitors During an interview and observation on 9/19/2024 at 10:10 am, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) BB confirmed that R71's urinary catheter drainage bag was not in a privacy bag. 2. A review of R94's Quarterly MDS dated [DATE] revealed section H (Bladder and Bowel) documented that R94 had an indwelling urinary catheter. A review of the Physician's Orders revealed an order dated 9/9/2024 to change the urinary catheter every month. A review of the comprehensive care plan revealed a focus area for an indwelling urinary catheter with diagnoses of benign prostatic hyperplasia and obstructive and reflux uropathy. Observations on 9/17/2024 at 11:21 am and 9/18/2024 at 8:52 am revealed R94 lying in bed with a urinary catheter drainage bag uncovered, exposing R94's urine to other residents and visitors. During an interview and observation on 9/19/2024 at 10:10 am, LPN BB confirmed that a privacy bag was not on R94's urinary catheter drainage bag on 9/17/2024 or 9/18/2024 and revealed she placed the privacy cover over the catheter drainage sometime on 9/18/2024. LPN BB stated urinary catheter drainage bags should be in a privacy bag. In an interview on 9/19/2024 at 10:30 am, the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) AA revealed that all residents with urinary catheters should have the drainage bag in a privacy bag.
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

Comprehensive Care Plan (Tag F0656)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, staff interviews, and record review, the facility failed to implement care plan interventions for two of ...

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, staff interviews, and record review, the facility failed to implement care plan interventions for two of 48 sampled residents (R) (R94 and R66). This failure had the potential for R94 and R66 to not receive treatment and/or care according to their needs. Findings include: 1. A review of R94's medical record revealed diagnoses included but was not limited to, pulmonary disease. A review of the Quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] revealed Section O (Special Treatments, Procedures, and Programs) documented that R94 received oxygen while a resident. A review of the care plan revealed that R94 received oxygen therapy and had diagnoses of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. Interventions included oxygen as ordered. A review of the Physician Orders revealed an order dated 9/9/2024 to check oxygen saturation and apply oxygen at 2 liters per minute (LPM) via nasal cannula (NC) for oxygen saturation below 92 percent. Observation on 9/17/2024 at 12:05 pm and 9/18/2024 at 8:52 am revealed R94 was receiving oxygen at 3 LPM. In an interview on 9/19/2024 at 10:10 am, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) BB verified R94's physician's order for oxygen at 2 LPM and verified the oxygen was set on the wrong flow rate. She confirmed that R94's care plan included administering oxygen as ordered by the physician and that if the oxygen was not administered as ordered, staff were not following the resident's care plan. 2. A review of R66's medical record revealed diagnoses included but was not limited to, hypertension. A review of the Quarterly MDS dated [DATE] revealed Section O (Special Treatments, Procedures, and Programs) documented that R66 received oxygen while a resident. A review of the care plan revealed the resident had hypertension. Interventions included administering oxygen as ordered. A review of R66's Physician's Orders revealed an order dated 3/25/2024 for oxygen at 2 LPM via NC as needed for shortness of breath. Observations on 9/17/2024 at 3:00 pm, 9/18/2024 at 10:41 am, and 9/19/2024 at 8:49 am revealed that R66 was receiving oxygen with the flow rate set above 3 LPM. In an interview on 9/19/2024 at 10:24 am, LPN CC verified R66's physician's order for oxygen at a rate of 2 LPM. She confirmed that R66's oxygen flow rate was above 3 LPM. She confirmed that R94's care plan included administering oxygen as ordered by the physician and that if the oxygen was not administered as ordered, staff were not following the resident's care plan. In an interview on 9/19/2024 at 3:40 pm, MDS Coordinator FF stated nursing staff was responsible for ensuring resident care plans were followed. Cross-Reference F695
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

Respiratory Care (Tag F0695)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, staff interviews, record review, and review of the facility policy titled Oxygen Therapy, the facility fa...

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, staff interviews, record review, and review of the facility policy titled Oxygen Therapy, the facility failed to ensure that two of 48 sampled residents (R) (R94 and R66) were administered oxygen therapy in accordance with the physician orders. This failure had the potential to affect the necessary respiratory care and services that are in accordance with professional standards of practice. Findings include: A review of the facility policy titled Oxygen Therapy, dated 12/28/2023, revealed the Purpose section included 1. There must be a physician's order for oxygen use which includes the route and liter flow or specific oxygen concentration and how long the oxygen is to be administered. 5. The Unit Nurse must instruct staff members that they must not . c. change the flow rate of the oxygen. 1. A review of R94's medical record revealed diagnoses included but was not limited to, pulmonary disease. A review of the Quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] revealed Section O (Special Treatments and Programs) documented that R94 received oxygen while a resident. A review of the Physician Orders revealed an order dated 9/9/2024 to check oxygen saturation and apply oxygen at 2 liters per minute (LPM) via nasal cannula (NC) for oxygen saturation below 92 percent. Observation on 9/17/2024 at 12:05 pm and 9/18/2024 at 8:52 am revealed R94 was receiving oxygen at 3 LPM. In an interview on 9/19/2024 at 10:10 am, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) BB verified R94's physician's order for oxygen at 2 LPM and verified the oxygen was set on the wrong flow rate. She stated the medication nurses were responsible for checking the oxygen flow rates daily to ensure the flow rate was correct. 2. A review of R66's medical record revealed diagnoses included but was not limited to, hypertension. A review of the Quarterly MDS dated [DATE] revealed Section O (Special Treatments and Programs) documented that R66 received oxygen while a resident. A review of R66's Physician's Orders revealed an order dated 3/25/2024 for oxygen at 2 LPM via NC as needed for shortness of breath. Observations on 9/17/2024 at 3:00 pm, 9/18/2024 at 10:41 am, and 9/19/2024 at 8:49 am revealed that R66 was receiving oxygen with the flow rate set above 3 LPM. During an interview and observation on 9/19/2024 at 10:24 am, LPN CC verified R66's physician's order for oxygen at a rate of 2 LPM. She confirmed that R66's oxygen flow rate was above 3 LPM and adjusted the rate to 2 LPM. She stated risks to the resident when receiving the wrong oxygen flow rate included breathing and heart rate problems. In an interview on 9/19/2024 at 10:30 am, Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) AA revealed that she expected nursing staff to check oxygen rates frequently. She further stated she expected all oxygen flow meters to be set at the rate prescribed by the physician.
Apr 2023 3 deficiencies
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

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, staff interview, and review of the facility policy titled, MDS: OBRA Assessments the facility failed to ...

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, staff interview, and review of the facility policy titled, MDS: OBRA Assessments the facility failed to develop a person-centered care plan related to oxygen use for one of three residents (R) (R#113). Specifically, the facility failed to ensure that a care plan was developed for R#113 pertaining to the prn use of oxygen therapy. Findings include: Review of facility policy titled, MDS: OBRA Assessments dated 10/3/2022 under procedures 7. The information gathered for the OBRA assessments will be used to develop, revise, and review each resident's individual plan care. Record review for R#113 revealed resident was admitted to the facility with the diagnoses not all inclusive of obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Occlusion and stenosis of unspecified carotid artery, hypokalemia, and anemia. Review of the physicians' orders dated 3/6/2023 revealed oxygen at (2) liters per minute via nasal cannula as needed for shortness of breath, oxygen filter washed with soap and water. Wipe down the outside machine with sanitizer as needed every Sunday night shift 7P- 7A, if used on the past week. There was no indication on R#113 plan of care pertaining to oxygen use. Minimum Data Set (MDS) Quarterly assessment dated [DATE] Section C (Cognitive Patterns) C0500 Brief interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score was 14 indicating resident was cognitively intact. Section O (Special treatments) indicated the resident was receiving oxygen therapy during the seven day look back period for assessment. Review of residents' weights and vitals summary report for March 2023, April 2023, and May 2023 for R#113 revealed resident used oxygen on the following dates since order was obtained. 3/22/2023, 3/23/2023, 3/25/2023, 3/26/2023,3/27/2023, 4/13/2023, 4/19/2023, 4/22/2023, 4/23/2023. A follow-up interview on 5/5/2023 at 12:15 p.m. with Minimum Data Set (MDS) Coordinator revealed that R#113 has an order for oxygen at 2 liters per minute as needed and has been using it sometimes at night. The dates the resident used the oxygen therapy were 4/24/2023, 4/27/2023, 4/28/2023, 5/2/2023, 5/3/2023, and 5/5/2023. The continued interview also revealed that if the resident is not routinely using oxygen, then a care plan would not be initiated for that care area and that R#113 did not have a care plan for oxygen use.
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

Respiratory Care (Tag F0695)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and staff interviews, the facility failed to ensure oxygen equipment was properly clean an...

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observations, record review, and staff interviews, the facility failed to ensure oxygen equipment was properly clean and stored when not in use for two (2) of 50 residents (R) (R#113, and R#159). The deficient practice had the potential to increase the probability of R#113, and R#159 of contracting respiratory infections. Findings include: Record review for R#113 revealed resident was admitted to the facility with the diagnoses not all inclusive of obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Occlusion and stenosis of unspecified carotid artery, hypokalemia, and anemia. Review of the physicians' orders revealed oxygen at (2) liters per minute via nasal cannula as needed for shortness of breath, oxygen filter washed with soap and water. Wipe down the outside machine with sanitizer as needed every Sunday night shift 7P- 7A, if used on the past week. There was no indication on R#113 plan of care pertaining to oxygen use. Minimum Data Set (MDS) Quarterly assessment dated [DATE] Section C (Cognitive Patterns) C0500 Brief interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score was 14 indicating resident was cognitively intact. Section O (Special treatments) indicated the resident was receiving oxygen therapy during the seven day look back period for assessment. 1. Observation on 4/25/2023 at 11:38 a.m. revealed R#113 oxygen concentrator tubing was not being stored in bag while not in use. Observation on 4/26/2023 at 8:59 a.m. revealed R#113 oxygen concentrator not in use with nasal cannula tubing lying on the floor and not covered. Observation on 4/27/2023 at 8:45 a.m. revealed R#113 oxygen concentrator not in use with nasal cannula tubing lying on the floor and not covered. Interview on 4/27/2023 at 10:15 a.m. during walking rounds with an Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) AA, confirmed that oxygen was lying on the floor and not properly stored. A further interview also revealed that if it falls on the floor, they need new tubing. During the interview it was disclosed that the facility currently does not have a policy for storing oxygen equipment. 2. Record review for R#159 revealed resident was admitted to the facility with the diagnoses not all inclusive of Pulmonary fibrosis, Malignant neoplasm, dependence on supplemental oxygen, shortness of breath, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Review of resident physicians' orders revealed continuous oxygen at 3 liters per minute via nasal cannula. Review of Quarterly MDS assessment dated [DATE] section C0500 revealed a BIMS score of 15 indicating resident was cognitively intact. Section O (Special treatments) indicated the resident was receiving oxygen therapy during the seven day look back period for assessment. Observation on 4/25/2023 at 10:36 a.m. revealed R#159's oxygen tank filter dirty, nebulizer machine on floor uncovered, portable oxygen tank has an exposed nasal cannula. Observation on 4/26/2023 at 8:42 a.m. revealed oxygen tank filter dirty, nebulizer machine on floor uncovered, and portable oxygen tank with an exposed nasal cannula. Observation on 4/27/2023 at 9:15 a.m. revealed oxygen concentrator filter was dirty, nebulizer machine on floor uncovered, and portable oxygen tank with an exposed nasal cannula. Interview on 4/27/2023 at 1:00 p.m. with Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) EE revealed she was responsible for maintenance and cleaning of equipment. She mentioned the resident always refuses her assistance, but she failed to document it. She further revealed care orders were changed to PRN since the resident does it herself now and the portable oxygen tank personally belongs to the resident, and it was brought to the facility by a family member. Interview on 4/27/2023 at 10:45 a.m. with the Administrator revealed there was not a policy for storing respiratory equipment when not in use, but Best practice is to store items in a plastic bag and hang at the head of the bed. Interview on 4/27/2023 at 1:20 p.m. with DON and Administrator confirmed the nurse assigned to that resident's hall is responsible for the maintenance and cleaning of the oxygen concentrator filter, ensuring the nebulizer machine is stored properly when not in use, and ensuring that the oxygen tubing is stored in a bag when not in use.
CONCERN (F) 📢 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 F0882 (Tag F0882)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, staff interviews, and review of facility policy titled, Infection Preventionist the facility failed to designate at least one qualified Infection Preventionist (IP), who is respo...

Read full inspector narrative →
Based on observation, staff interviews, and review of facility policy titled, Infection Preventionist the facility failed to designate at least one qualified Infection Preventionist (IP), who is responsible for the facility's Infection Prevention, Control & Immunizations (IPCP). Findings include: Review of facility policy titled, Infection Preventionist revised 9/16/2021 indicated Policy Statement: The Infection Preventionist is responsible for coordinating the implementation and updating of our established infection prevention and control policies and practices. An observation on 4/27/2023 at 11:00 a.m. revealed the facility does not have a designated Infection Preventionist (IP) nurse. An interview with Director of Nursing (DON) and Administrator on 4/27/2023 at 11:10 a.m. also confirmed the facility does not have a qualified IP nurse. Further interview with Administrator on 4/27/2023 at 11: 20 a.m. revealed the previously qualified IP nurse voluntarily resigned on 4/18/2023.
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
  • • No major safety red flags. No abuse findings, life-threatening violations, or SFF status.
  • • 40% turnover. Below Georgia's 48% average. Good staff retention means consistent care.
Concerns
  • • $10,218 in fines. Above average for Georgia. Some compliance problems on record.
Bottom line: Generally positive indicators. Standard due diligence and a personal visit recommended.

About This Facility

What is Baptist Village, Inc.'s CMS Rating?

CMS assigns BAPTIST VILLAGE, INC. an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which is considered above average nationally. Within Georgia, 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 Baptist Village, Inc. Staffed?

CMS rates BAPTIST VILLAGE, INC.'s staffing level at 3 out of 5 stars, which is average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 40%, compared to the Georgia average of 46%. This relatively stable workforce can support continuity of care.

What Have Inspectors Found at Baptist Village, Inc.?

State health inspectors documented 6 deficiencies at BAPTIST VILLAGE, INC. during 2023 to 2024. These included: 6 with potential for harm.

Who Owns and Operates Baptist Village, Inc.?

BAPTIST VILLAGE, INC. is owned by a non-profit organization. Non-profit facilities reinvest revenue into operations rather than distributing to shareholders. The facility operates independently rather than as part of a larger chain. With 254 certified beds and approximately 171 residents (about 67% occupancy), it is a large facility located in WAYCROSS, Georgia.

How Does Baptist Village, Inc. Compare to Other Georgia Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in Georgia, BAPTIST VILLAGE, INC.'s overall rating (4 stars) is above the state average of 2.6, staff turnover (40%) is near the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (4 stars) is above the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Baptist Village, Inc.?

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 Baptist Village, Inc. Safe?

Based on CMS inspection data, BAPTIST VILLAGE, INC. 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 4-star overall rating and ranks #1 of 100 nursing homes in Georgia. While no facility is perfect, families should still ask about staff-to-resident ratios and recent inspection results during their visit.

Do Nurses at Baptist Village, Inc. Stick Around?

BAPTIST VILLAGE, INC. has a staff turnover rate of 40%, which is about average for Georgia nursing homes (state average: 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 Baptist Village, Inc. Ever Fined?

BAPTIST VILLAGE, INC. has been fined $10,218 across 2 penalty actions. This is below the Georgia average of $33,181. While any fine indicates a compliance issue, fines under $50,000 are relatively common and typically reflect isolated problems that were subsequently corrected. Families should ask what specific issues led to these fines and confirm they've been resolved.

Is Baptist Village, Inc. on Any Federal Watch List?

BAPTIST VILLAGE, INC. 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.