Fernald group says state care is deteriorating

The letter alleges that Gov. Deval Patrick's administration is allowing conditions at Fernald to deteriorate through staff cuts and inadequate maintenance as the site is prepared for closure, according to a press release from the Fernald League.

"We are facing growing instances of unexplained injuries, a lack of familiar staff caring for residents, inadequate supervision, leaking plumbing, unclean bathrooms, and many other problems," the letter alleged.

"We can only conclude that conditions at Fernald have been allowed to deteriorate because Fernald is the first [Intermediate Care Facilities for the Mentally Retarded] slated for closure,” the letter continued. “As a result, families have felt under pressure to move their loved ones out."

Excerpts of the letter, along with written reports from the facility, were also posted here on Blue Mass Group.

The Department of Developmental Services responded with a written statement:

“The Commonwealth is committed to providing only the highest level of care and supports for all of our consumers. We have fully maintained the quality of services available to residents of the Fernald Center, as well as the facility itself. In fact, the Fernald Developmental Center was recently recertified by the federal government and was determined to be in full compliance.

The statement continues: "As part of our 'Community First' agenda, we are moving forward with our plans to close four of the state’s six facilities for people with developmental disabilities over the next four years and establish additional community-based residences. Throughout the transition, we will ensure that all residents continue to receive the highest quality of care and supports, with active engagement of residents, their family members and guardians.”

The state plans to close Fernald by June. This week, a Waltham committee outlined options for use of the sprawling, 200-acre campus when it closes.

Fernald families and guardians continue to explore legal options to delay the closure of Fernald, according to the press release from the Fernald League.