Cracks in the ceiling were discovered July 22 by a staff member, Phoenix VA Medical Director Michael Welsh said. A deeper investigation found rat activity on the first and second floors. Mr. Welsh believes two recent monsoons caused the rat issue.
“There has been no interaction between rodents, staff and veterans at all,” Welsh said at a news conference Monday.
Staff immediately began removing 25 residents, ages ranging from 70s to 106, into sister facilities or family members’ homes.
Although the facility is actively working on removing the rats, Mr. Welsh stated it’s unknown when the full inspection will be completed and residents can move back in.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.