CMS rules DBHDD's Gracewood unit in compliance

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) has received notice that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has determined that the Gracewood ICF unit is in substantial compliance with CMS regulations. This is important news following the notice of  CMS' intent to decertify the unit.

The department’s team on the ground, led by Dr. Charles Li, worked diligently over the last several months to make dramatic improvements to fulfill the Plan of Correction submitted to CMS. It is important to commend everyone involved for their work at Gracewood. The collaboration required to address the issues found by CMS at Gracewood was impressive. The letter from CMS is important evidence of our ability to lead effective change and deliver on our commitment to high quality care..

As Gracewood moves forward, there is an urgent need to continue this momentum and growth. The department expects that surveyors will be back in the near future for Gracewood’s annual recertification. There are still many components which must be improved. These areas will need the sustained commitment and intense focus of everyone involved. The department is confident that with continued effort, this facility will offer compassionate and high-quality care to the individuals we serve.