While the results of this study may seem obvious, studies like this are necessary in order to change / guide public policy. Excerpts below:

Background

Private equity (PE) investment in U.S. nursing homes has increased significantly over the past two decades. The emergence of this novel ownership model has prompted concerns regarding its effects on nursing home performance, especially quality.

Highlights

• ownership is linked to reduced CNA and LPN hours, with little to no increase in RN staffing.
• Increased deficiencies, mortality, and hospital visits were observed post-acquisition.
• Clinical care processes, including medication use, remained largely unchanged after PE acquisition
• PE ownership did not consistently improve financial margins.
• PE-owned NHs billed Medicare more, largely due to financial restructuring.