News

Arizona care facility to close after incapacitated woman gives birth

A long-term care facility in Arizona announced Thursday that it would close after an incapacitated woman was sexually assaulted and later gave birth.

Hacienda Healthcare’s board of directors determined it was no longer sustainable to operate the facility in Phoenix, The Associated Press reported.

The news comes weeks after a 29-year old woman who has been incapacitated for more than 14 years gave birth at the facility unexpectedly to a healthy baby boy.

A former licensed nurse working for Hacienda HealthCare was arrested and charged with sexually assaulting the woman. He has pleaded not guilty.

{mosads}State agencies will help Hacienda officials create a plan to move the 37 patients with intellectual or developmental disabilities who require a high level of medical care to other long-term care facilities, AP reported

Hacienda HealthCare is privately owned and has more than 40 health care programs in the Phoenix area.

Bill Timmons resigned as CEO of Hacienda last month following the backlash. 

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey (R) on Wednesday issued an executive order directing state agencies to increase protections for people with disabilities in long-term care facilities.

The order also requires state-funded care facilities to train employees on how to prevent and report abuse.