Department of Public Safety News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 16, 2017

Department of Public Safety initiates independent investigation of St. Louis Veterans Home

Gov. Greitens ordered DPS to initiate independent investigation following complaints at Bellefontaine Neighbors facility

Department of Public Safety Director Drew Juden today announced an independent investigation is underway into allegations of poor medical care at the St. Louis Veterans Home. After a thorough search, the department has contracted with Harmony Healthcare International (HHI), which is already on-scene at the home in Bellefontaine Neighbors, in north St. Louis County. HHI is a healthcare consulting firm whose services include nursing home audits, compliance reviews and monitoring to ensure quality patient care.

DPS has directed the Missouri Veterans Commission staff to cooperate fully with the investigation, including providing full access upon demand to the facility, records, employees and residents.

“We take this matter extremely seriously because the health, safety and well-being of veterans in the state’s care are absolutely essential,” Public Safety Director Drew Juden said. “We are committed to ensuring the investigation is independent, thorough and completed expeditiously, because that’s what Missouri veterans and their families deserve. When Gov. Greitens directed me to initiate this investigation he told me our mission is to make Missouri the best state in America for all veterans, every single day. We intend to make sure that directive is carried out.”  

Harmony Healthcare International arrived at the St. Louis County Veterans home today. Director Juden said a complete report is expected by the end of the year.

Since July 21, Gov. Greitens has taken the following actions related to care at the St. Louis County Veterans Home:

  • Gov. Greitens directed the Missouri Veterans Commission administration to investigate and take corrective actions after concerns were raised about conditions at the home.
  • Gov. Greitens directed the Department of Public Safety to conduct a follow-up investigation, including an unannounced inspection of the home.
  • Gov. Greitens requested an investigation by the Veterans Administration.
  • Gov. Greitens, on Oct. 31, directed DPS to initiate an additional full, thorough and independent investigation of the home. 

 



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For more information, call 573-751-5432 or e-mail mike.oconnell@dps.mo.gov