This originally appeared in the Philadelphia Inquirer
I commend reporter Harold Brubaker for his continuing efforts to spotlight the neglect and abuse suffered by the most vulnerable: people with disabilities and the elderly. I am glad to see that the inhuman treatment and death of Herbert McMaster at Cathedral Village was quick and properly investigated by the Health Department and the Attorney General’s Office, and that the nonprofit was cited for its failures. Hopefully, Cathedral Village and the temp staff will both be held accountable for his neglect and death.
Every agency or facility receiving Medicaid funding is responsible for the welfare and care of any dependent individual for whom they are receiving funding. I would like to know why the same rule was not applied to Blossom several months ago when a number of individuals were neglected and abused, among them Vincent McNamara.
Audrey Coccia, co-executive director, Vision for Equality Inc., Philadelphia
