Augusta-based assisted living provider gets national seal of approval
Photo / Courtesy Woodlands Senior Living
Woodlands Senior Living is Maine's first assisted-living provider to earn accreditation from the Joint Commission, for seven locations including this one in Farmington.
Augusta-based Woodlands Senior Living has become Maine’s first assisted living provider to gain accreditation from for its facilities from the Joint Commission, widely regarded as the premier such organization in health care.
Out of 10 senior living locations operated by the company, seven have been accredited by the commission, an Illinois-based nonprofit that accredits more than 22,000 health care organizations and programs nationwide.
Woodlands Senior Living in Farmington was the first to gain the distinction, joined by sister locations in Hallowell, Waterville, Madison, Bridgton, Lewiston and Hillside Terrace of Hallowell. The other three Woodlands Senior Living locations — in Cape Elizabeth, Brewer and Rockland — are expected to gain accreditation in coming weeks, according to the family-owned company.
To be licensed in Maine, a residential care community must meet certain criteria set by the state Department of Health and Human Services. “To earn accreditation by the Joint Commission, however, we must go well above and beyond in all areas," said Matthew Walters, managing member of Woodlands Senior Living.
"The fact that we are the first and only assisted living provider in the state of Maine that has been able to qualify to receive the Joint Commission certification is a testament to our organizations over 40 years of experience and our high standards for quality of service, living environments and staff," he added.
Praise for safety, compassion
Woodlands Senior Living underwent a comprehensive, multiday onsite review at eight locations between November and March, with the other two forthcoming.
During the visits, reviewers evaluated compliance standards focusing on resident safety and quality, while evaluating care processes and technology. The surveyors also conducted on-site observations and interviews.
“We commend Woodlands Senior Living for its commitment to advance safety, quality, equity and compassion for all patients,” said Ken Grubbs, the commission’s executive vice president of accreditation and certification operations and chief nursing officer.
Woodlands Senior Living started in 1980 with a 39-resident boarding home in Hallowell. The organization has since grown to include 16 communities serving more than 700 residents in 10 locations, which employ a total of 450 people.
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