by Nyamekye Daniel, The Center Square
| July 07, 2021 04:00 PM
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The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a financial toll on Georgia's long-term care facilities, officials said.
Devon Barill, communications director for the Georgia Health Care Association and Georgia Center for Assisted Living (GHCA/GCAL), said the facilities have faced increased expenses and revenue losses from caring for the state's most vulnerable population.
While COVID-19 can lead to severe complications in older people and those with underlying issues, the congregated facilities are often home to the elderly and people who require supportive care.
Barill said not only did nursing homes spend more money caring for residents during the outbreak that required more medical supplies and personal protective equipment, facilities also lost revenue because of capacity limits. The centers now are facing staffing shortages.