STAT+: He’s slashing quality at nursing homes. This state is letting it happen

RegalCare in Taunton, Mass.Suzanne Kreiter/Globe staff The red-brick nursing home tucked off a busy road in Taunton used to be a rare jewel in a beleaguered industry, polished to a high sheen. Floors gleamed from daily scrubbing. Residents’ clothes came back fresh and neatly folded. Employees stayed for decades. In early 2020, the 100-bed home earned the federal government’s highest quality rating — five stars — and held it for more than two years. Then Eli Mirlis swept in from New Jersey and everything changed. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe Kay Lazar, Neena Hagen, and Tricia L. Nadolny — Boston Globe