UNITED ZION RETIREMENT COMMUNI

722 FURNACE HILL PIKE, LITITZ, PA 17543 (717) 626-2071
Non profit - Corporation 59 Beds Independent Data: November 2025
Trust Grade
88/100
#135 of 653 in PA
Last Inspection: August 2025

Inspected within the last 6 months. Data reflects current conditions.

Overview

United Zion Retirement Community has received a Trust Grade of B+, which means it is recommended and performs above average compared to other facilities. It ranks #135 out of 653 nursing homes in Pennsylvania, placing it in the top half of the state, and #16 out of 31 in Lancaster County, indicating only 15 local options are better. The facility is showing improvement, with issues decreasing from 2 in 2024 to none in 2025. Staffing is a strong point with a 5/5 rating and a turnover rate of just 22%, significantly lower than the state average, which suggests that staff are experienced and familiar with the residents. However, there have been some concerning incidents; one resident sustained a fall due to inadequate supervision, resulting in a hospital transfer for a fracture, and there were failures to complete a physician's discharge summary and to attempt non-drug interventions before administering anxiety medication. Overall, while there are notable strengths, families should be aware of these weaknesses when considering this facility.

Trust Score
B+
88/100
In Pennsylvania
#135/653
Top 20%
Safety Record
Moderate
Needs review
Inspections
Getting Better
2 → 0 violations
Staff Stability
✓ Good
22% annual turnover. Excellent stability, 26 points below Pennsylvania's 48% average. Staff who stay learn residents' needs.
Penalties
○ Average
$7,443 in fines. Higher than 54% of Pennsylvania facilities. Some compliance issues.
Skilled Nurses
✓ Good
Each resident gets 57 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — more than average for Pennsylvania. RNs are trained to catch health problems early.
Violations
✓ Good
Only 3 deficiencies on record. Cleaner than most facilities. Minor issues only.
★★★★★
5.0
Overall Rating
★★★★★
5.0
Staff Levels
★★★★★
5.0
Care Quality
★★★★★
5.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2024: 2 issues
2025: 0 issues

The Good

  • 5-Star Staffing Rating · Excellent nurse staffing levels
  • 5-Star Quality Measures · Strong clinical quality outcomes
  • Low Staff Turnover (22%) · Staff stability means consistent care
  • Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
  • No fines on record
  • Staff turnover is low (22%)

    26 points below Pennsylvania average of 48%

Facility shows strength in staffing levels, quality measures, staff retention, fire safety.

The Bad

Federal Fines: $7,443

Below median ($33,413)

Minor penalties assessed

The Ugly 3 deficiencies on record

1 actual harm
Jul 2024 2 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

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

Deficiency F0661 (Tag F0661)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

Based on a review of clinical records and interview with staff, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure a physician's discharge summary was completed prior to or at the time of discharge ...

Read full inspector narrative →
Based on a review of clinical records and interview with staff, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure a physician's discharge summary was completed prior to or at the time of discharge for one of two closed records (Resident 57). Findings include: Review of Resident 57's clinical record revealed that the resident was discharged from the facility on May 6, 2024. Further review of Resident 57's clinical record failed to reveal evidence that the discharge summary was completed by the physician prior to or at the time of discharge. Interview with the Nursing Home Administrator on July 18, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. confirmed that the discharge summary was not completed. 28 Pa Code 211.5(d) Clinical record
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 clinical records review and staff interview, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure non-pharmacological interventions were attempted, and documented indication was provided befo...

Read full inspector narrative →
Based on clinical records review and staff interview, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure non-pharmacological interventions were attempted, and documented indication was provided before administering as-needed anti-anxiety medication for one of 5 residents reviewed (Resident 14). Findings include: Review of Resident 14's physician's order dated June 14, 2024, revealed an order for Lorazepam (anti-anxiety medication) 0.5 mg (milligram) one tablet twice daily as needed for anxiety. Review of Resident 14's June 2024, Medication Administration Records (MAR) from June 15, 2024, until June 26, 2024, Resident 14 was administered as-needed Lorazepam seven times without appropriate indication for use and was administered ten times without attempts to provide a non-pharmacological intervention before administering the medication. Interview conducted with the Nursing Home Administrator on July 18, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., confirmed the facility failed to document evidence of non-pharmacological interventions provided before administering the medication and no appropriate indication for the drug. The facility failed to ensure non-pharmacological interventions were attempted, and appropriate indications were present before administering Resident 14 with as-needed anti-anxiety medication. 28 Pa. Code: 211.12(d)(5) Nursing Services 28 Pa. Code: 211.12 (d)(1)(3) Nursing Services
Sept 2023 1 deficiency 1 Harm
SERIOUS (G)

Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures

Accident Prevention (Tag F0689)

A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on clinical record and facility documentation review, and staff interview, it was determined that the facility failed to e...

Read full inspector narrative →
**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on clinical record and facility documentation review, and staff interview, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure that one of four residents reviewed was provided with adequate supervision to prevent accidents which resulted in actual harm to Resident 9 sustaining a fall, requiring transfer to the hospital via emergency medical services and the diagnosis of a fracture to the humerus (long bone of the upper arm). Findings include: Review of Resident 9's clinical record included diagnoses of, but not limited to, Cerebrovascular accident (stroke) with left side hemiparesis (weakness or paralysis on one side of the body), Dementia (decline in cognitive abilities that affects the brain's ability to think, remember, and function normally), and Ambulatory Dysfunction (abnormal gait that makes it difficult or impossible to walk). Review of Resident 9's fall risk assessment dated [DATE], revealed a score of 18. The assessment indicated that if the score is 10 or greater, the resident should be considered high risk for potential falls. Review of Resident 9's quarterly MDS (Minimum Data Set - periodic assessment of resident needs) completed May 19, 2023, revealed resident had a BIMS (brief interview for mental status - structured evaluation aimed at evaluating aspects of cognition in elderly patients) score of 4, indicating severe cognitive impairment. The MDS assessment revealed that the resident required extensive assistance of two persons for transfers and toileting. Review of Resident 9's care plan identified, the resident at moderate risk for falls related to impaired mobility, osteoporosis, unsteady balance, and hemiplegia. The care plan included an intervention initiated April 1, 2017, with a revision date of February 22, 2021, to anticipate and meet the resident's needs. Assist with toileting and do not leave in bathroom unattended. Review of interdisciplinary note dated May 21, 2023, at 2:18 p.m. revealed resident found on bathroom floor laying on left side, head against wall where night light is, hoyer lift used to lift off floor into bed, resident has left shoulder pain and left hip pain. Further review of interdisciplinary note dated May 21, 2023, at 2:30 p.m. revealed fall noted, stat xray shoulder 2 views and stat xray left hip 2 views. Review of interdisciplinary note dated May 21, 2023, at 4:29 p.m. revealed resident's results from x-ray showed the hip was intact but the left shoulder was broken. The humerous (sic) was broken at neck at shoulder joint. Doctor decided to send out due to pain and mobility issues. Resident left at 4:40 p.m. via ambulance. Review of Employee E4's statement obtained on May 21, 2023, revealed resident must have tried to transfer herself. She was on pot with bell, trying to have BM (bowel movement). We heard her yell for help, but she already fell till we ran in there. Review of facility documentation revealed a follow up interview conducted by the Director of Nursing with Employee E4 on May 22, 2023, indicated resident was toileted at 12:40 p.m. and checked approximately one minute before the fall. Resident indicated he/she wanted to stay on the toilet to have a BM. Fall occurred at 12:45 p.m. Interview with Employee E3 on September 29, 2023, at 11:37 a.m. revealed that Resident 9 was not assigned to Employee E3 on the day of the fall. Employee E3 indicated Employee E3 was sitting at the care base with Employee E4 when they heard the resident fall. Interview with the Director of Nursing on September 28 , 2023, at 1:50 p.m. indicated that the resident's care plan was not followed and that staff were in the vicinity at the time of the fall. The facility failed to ensure Resident 9 was provided with supervision during toileting which resulted in actual harm to Resident 9 sustaining a fall, requiring transfer to the hospital via emergency medical services and the diagnosis of a fracture to the left humerus. 28 Pa. Code: 211.5(f) Clinical records Previously cited 10/18/21 28 Pa. Code: 211.12(d)(1) Nursing services 28 Pa. Code: 211.12(d)(5) Nursing services
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 B+ (88/100). Above average facility, better than most options in Pennsylvania.
  • • 22% annual turnover. Excellent stability, 26 points below Pennsylvania's 48% average. Staff who stay learn residents' needs.
Concerns
  • • 3 deficiencies on record, including 1 serious (caused harm) violation. Ask about corrective actions taken.
Bottom line: Generally positive indicators. Standard due diligence and a personal visit recommended.

About This Facility

What is United Zion Retirement Communi's CMS Rating?

CMS assigns UNITED ZION RETIREMENT COMMUNI an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars, which is considered much above average nationally. Within Pennsylvania, 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 United Zion Retirement Communi Staffed?

CMS rates UNITED ZION RETIREMENT COMMUNI's staffing level at 5 out of 5 stars, which is much above average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 22%, compared to the Pennsylvania average of 46%. This relatively stable workforce can support continuity of care.

What Have Inspectors Found at United Zion Retirement Communi?

State health inspectors documented 3 deficiencies at UNITED ZION RETIREMENT COMMUNI during 2023 to 2024. These included: 1 that caused actual resident harm and 2 with potential for harm. Deficiencies causing actual harm indicate documented cases where residents experienced negative health consequences.

Who Owns and Operates United Zion Retirement Communi?

UNITED ZION RETIREMENT COMMUNI 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 59 certified beds and approximately 55 residents (about 93% occupancy), it is a smaller facility located in LITITZ, Pennsylvania.

How Does United Zion Retirement Communi Compare to Other Pennsylvania Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in Pennsylvania, UNITED ZION RETIREMENT COMMUNI's overall rating (5 stars) is above the state average of 3.0, staff turnover (22%) is significantly lower than the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (5 stars) is much above the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting United Zion Retirement Communi?

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 United Zion Retirement Communi Safe?

Based on CMS inspection data, UNITED ZION RETIREMENT COMMUNI 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 Pennsylvania. While no facility is perfect, families should still ask about staff-to-resident ratios and recent inspection results during their visit.

Do Nurses at United Zion Retirement Communi Stick Around?

Staff at UNITED ZION RETIREMENT COMMUNI tend to stick around. With a turnover rate of 22%, the facility is 24 percentage points below the Pennsylvania average of 46%. Low turnover is a positive sign. It means caregivers have time to learn each resident's needs, medications, and personal preferences. Consistent staff also notice subtle changes in a resident's condition more quickly. Registered Nurse turnover is also low at 18%, meaning experienced RNs are available to handle complex medical needs.

Was United Zion Retirement Communi Ever Fined?

UNITED ZION RETIREMENT COMMUNI has been fined $7,443 across 1 penalty action. This is below the Pennsylvania average of $33,153. 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 United Zion Retirement Communi on Any Federal Watch List?

UNITED ZION RETIREMENT COMMUNI 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.