The Good Samaritan Society in Mohall, North Dakota, is facing challenges that have led to the decision to close its nursing home in late November. The organization cites ongoing issues with staffing and costs as the primary reasons for this difficult decision. The Executive Director, Phil Samuelson, stated that they have struggled to fill caregiving positions with qualified, permanent staff, which has limited their ability to provide necessary care for residents. Despite their efforts to find creative solutions and invest in their employees, the challenges have become unsustainable.
With 36 staff members currently serving 32 residents at the Mohall location, the closure will impact both employees and residents alike. Samuelson emphasized their commitment to helping residents transition to new homes, including exploring options at other Good Samaritan Society locations. Additionally, the organization is assisting current staff members in finding employment opportunities within their organization where possible. This closure is part of a larger trend affecting long-term care facilities nationwide, exacerbated by the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Good Samaritan Society expressed gratitude for the care and support provided by residents, employees, volunteers, and family members throughout the years. They acknowledged the difficulty of this decision but emphasized the importance of addressing the operational challenges they face in order to ensure the well-being of their residents. While the closure of the Mohall nursing home marks the end of an era, the organization remains committed to its mission of providing compassionate care and support to those in need. As they navigate this transition, they will continue to uphold their values and work towards finding alternative solutions to meet the changing needs of their community.