nursing home in Columbia City, IN
Waters of Columbia City Skilled Nursing Facility
640 W Ellsworth St, Columbia City, IN 46725 · (260) 248-8101
CMS overall star rating
- Health inspections★★★★★2
- Staffing★★★★★3
- Quality measures★★★★★5
Source: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Medicare Care Compare. We refresh our information from this source. About our data
Waters of Columbia City Skilled Nursing Facility at a glance
Waters of Columbia City Skilled Nursing Facility is a 84-bed for-profit nursing home in Columbia City, Indiana (Whitley County).
CMS gives it 3 out of 5 stars on its overall star rating, close to the Indiana average of 3.1.
Residents receive about 3.1 hours of nursing care per day (1.2 of them from registered nurses), worse than the state average of 3.7 hours.
Its most recent standard health inspection (December 12, 2025) found 5 health citations. The Indiana average is 7.2.
Federal regulators fined it 1 time in the past three years, totaling $60,590.
Nursing staff turnover is 56.3% per year (state average 45.9%).
Facility details
- Type
- Nursing home
- Ownership
- For Profit - Corporation
- Beds
- 84
- Certified for
- Medicare and Medicaid
- Chain / affiliated entity
- Infinity Healthcare Consulting
- Medicare-certified since
- January 3, 1974
- Resident/family council
- Both
- County
- Whitley County
- CMS Certification Number
- 155150
Ratings
| Measure | This facility | Indiana avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall star rating ⓘ (higher is better) | 3 / 5 | 3.1 / 5 | 3 / 5 | Average |
| Health inspection rating ⓘ (higher is better) | 2 / 5 | 2.8 / 5 | 2.8 / 5 | Worse |
| Staffing rating ⓘ (higher is better) | 3 / 5 | 2.5 / 5 | 2.9 / 5 | Average |
| Quality measures rating ⓘ (higher is better) | 5 / 5 | 4.1 / 5 | 3.6 / 5 | Better |
| Long-stay quality rating (higher is better) | 5 / 5 | 4.3 / 5 | 3.8 / 5 | Better |
Staffing
| Measure | This facility | Indiana avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total nurse staff hours per resident per day ⓘ (higher is better) | 3.09 hrs | 3.69 hrs | 3.86 hrs | Worse |
| Registered nurse hours per resident per day (higher is better) | 1.16 hrs | 0.67 hrs | 0.69 hrs | Better |
| Nurse aide hours per resident per day (higher is better) | 1.75 hrs | 2.24 hrs | 2.32 hrs | Worse |
| Weekend nurse staff hours per resident per day (higher is better) | 2.73 hrs | 3.25 hrs | 3.42 hrs | Worse |
| Nursing staff turnover (yearly) (lower is better) | 56.3% | 45.9% | 45.8% | Worse |
| Registered nurse turnover (yearly) (lower is better) | 12.5% | 40.3% | 42.9% | Better |
| Administrators who left in the past year (lower is better) | 0 | 0 | 1 | Better |
Inspections
| Measure | This facility | Indiana avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health citations in the most recent inspection (lower is better) | 5 | 7 | 9 | Better |
| Citations from complaint investigations (latest cycle) (lower is better) | 0 | 2 | 3 | Better |
| Weighted health inspection score ⓘ (lower is better) | 74.5 | 49.2 | 80.6 | Better |
Penalties
| Measure | This facility | Indiana avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fines in the past 3 years (lower is better) | 1 | 0 | 1 | Worse |
| Total fines in the past 3 years (lower is better) | $60,590 | $8,742 | $30,972 | Worse |
| All federal penalties in the past 3 years (lower is better) | 1 | 0 | 1 | Average |
Size
| Measure | This facility | Indiana avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Certified beds | 84 | 96 | 107 | |
| Average residents per day | 41 | 73 | 86 | |
| Occupancy | 49% | 76.2% | 80.9% |
Long-stay residents
| Measure | This facility | Indiana avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long-stay residents with a fall causing major injury (lower is better) | 4.8% | 3.9% | 3.2% | Worse |
| Long-stay residents with pressure ulcers (lower is better) | 0.8% | 3.6% | 4.6% | Better |
| Long-stay residents given antipsychotic medication (lower is better) | 8.9% | 13.6% | 15.4% | Better |
| Long-stay residents with a urinary tract infection (lower is better) | 0% | 1.1% | 1.6% | Better |
| Long-stay residents with a catheter left in the bladder (lower is better) | 0% | 0.4% | 0.8% | Better |
| Long-stay residents needing more help with daily activities (lower is better) | 1.7% | 11% | 13.9% | Better |
| Long-stay residents whose walking worsened (lower is better) | 4.1% | 11.9% | 14.1% | Better |
| Long-stay residents who lose too much weight (lower is better) | 4.1% | 5.5% | 5.2% | Better |
| Long-stay residents with depressive symptoms (lower is better) | 26.9% | 25.2% | 12.8% | Worse |
| Long-stay residents who were physically restrained (lower is better) | 0% | 0% | 0.1% | Better |
| Long-stay residents given anti-anxiety or sleep medication (lower is better) | 33.3% | 23.5% | 19.5% | Worse |
| Long-stay residents with new or worse incontinence (lower is better) | 33.4% | 23.3% | 19% | Worse |
| Long-stay residents given a flu vaccine (higher is better) | 100% | 95.4% | 95.5% | Average |
| Long-stay residents given a pneumonia vaccine (higher is better) | 100% | 93.6% | 93.6% | Better |
Short-stay residents
| Measure | This facility | Indiana avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-stay residents newly given antipsychotic medication (lower is better) | 0.9% | 1.2% | 1.6% | Better |
| Short-stay residents given a flu vaccine (higher is better) | 94.6% | 79% | 79.8% | Better |
| Short-stay residents given a pneumonia vaccine (higher is better) | 98.1% | 81.8% | 82% | Better |
Inspection citations
State inspectors cited this home for 17 health deficiencies and 23 fire safety deficiencies in the inspection records CMS currently publishes. 2 citations involved actual harm, including 2 rated "immediate jeopardy".
| Date | Citation | Severity | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 12, 2025 Fire safety | To conduct inspection, testing and maintenance of fire doors by qualified individuals. Miscellaneous Deficiencies · Tag K0761 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected January 29, 2026 |
| December 12, 2025 Fire safety | Have simulated fire drills held at unexpected times. Miscellaneous Deficiencies · Tag K0712 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected January 29, 2026 |
| December 12, 2025 Fire safety | Install an approved automatic sprinkler system. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0351 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected January 29, 2026 |
| December 12, 2025 Fire safety | Have approved installation, maintenance and testing program for fire alarm systems. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0345 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected January 29, 2026 |
| December 12, 2025 Fire safety | Keep aisles, corridors, and exits free of obstruction in case of emergency. Egress Deficiencies · Tag K0211 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected January 29, 2026 |
| December 12, 2025 Fire safety | Ensure that special areas are constructed so that walls can resist fire for one hour or have an approved fire extinguishing system. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0321 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected January 29, 2026 |
| December 12, 2025 Standard | Procure food from sources approved or considered satisfactory and store, prepare, distribute and serve food in accordance with professional standards. Nutrition and Dietary Deficiencies · Tag F0812 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected January 16, 2026 |
| December 12, 2025 Standard | Honor the resident's right to a dignified existence, self-determination, communication, and to exercise his or her rights. Resident Rights Deficiencies · Tag F0550 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected January 16, 2026 |
| December 12, 2025 Standard | Provide appropriate treatment and care according to orders, resident’s preferences and goals. Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies · Tag F0684 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected January 16, 2026 |
| December 12, 2025 Standard | Ensure drugs and biologicals used in the facility are labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles; and all drugs and biologicals must be stored in locked compartments, separately locked, compartments for controlled drugs. Pharmacy Service Deficiencies · Tag F0761 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected January 16, 2026 |
| December 12, 2025 Standard | Provide safe and appropriate respiratory care for a resident when needed. Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies · Tag F0695 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected January 16, 2026 |
| October 21, 2024 Fire safety | Create arrangements with other facilities to receive patients. Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies · Tag E0025 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected December 21, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Fire safety | Address subsistence needs for staff and patients. Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies · Tag E0015 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected December 21, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Fire safety | Conduct risk assessment and an All-Hazards approach. Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies · Tag E0006 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected December 21, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Fire safety | Ensure proper usage of power strips and extension cords. Gas, Vacuum, and Electrical Systems Deficiencies · Tag K0920 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected December 21, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Fire safety | Ensure that special areas are constructed so that walls can resist fire for one hour or have an approved fire extinguishing system. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0321 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected December 21, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Fire safety | Have properly installed electrical wiring and gas equipment. Services Deficiencies · Tag K0511 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected December 21, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Fire safety | Properly select, install, inspect, or maintain portable fire extinguishes. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0355 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected December 21, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Fire safety | Inspect, test, and maintain automatic sprinkler systems. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0353 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected December 21, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Fire safety | Establish emergency prep training and testing. Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies · Tag E0036 | C No harm, widespread | Corrected December 21, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Fire safety | Develop Emergency Preparedness policies and procedures. Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies · Tag E0013 | C No harm, widespread | Corrected December 21, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Fire safety | Develop and maintain an Emergency Preparedness Program (EP). Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies · Tag E0004 | C No harm, widespread | Corrected December 21, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Fire safety | Establish staff and initial training requirements. Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies · Tag E0037 | C No harm, widespread | Corrected December 21, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Fire safety | Develop a communication plan. Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies · Tag E0029 | C No harm, widespread | Corrected December 21, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Standard | Procure food from sources approved or considered satisfactory and store, prepare, distribute and serve food in accordance with professional standards. Nutrition and Dietary Deficiencies · Tag F0812 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected November 1, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Standard | Honor the resident's right to a safe, clean, comfortable and homelike environment, including but not limited to receiving treatment and supports for daily living safely. Resident Rights Deficiencies · Tag F0584 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected November 1, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Standard | Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program. Infection Control Deficiencies · Tag F0880 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected November 1, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Standard | Ensure drugs and biologicals used in the facility are labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles; and all drugs and biologicals must be stored in locked compartments, separately locked, compartments for controlled drugs. Pharmacy Service Deficiencies · Tag F0761 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected November 1, 2024 |
| October 21, 2024 Standard | Provide care and assistance to perform activities of daily living for any resident who is unable. Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies · Tag F0677 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected November 1, 2024 |
| February 22, 2024 Complaint | Provide appropriate treatment and care according to orders, resident’s preferences and goals. Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies · Tag F0684 | J Immediate jeopardy, isolated | Corrected February 24, 2024 |
| February 22, 2024 Complaint | Ensure that residents are free from significant medication errors. Pharmacy Service Deficiencies · Tag F0760 | J Immediate jeopardy, isolated | Corrected February 24, 2024 |
| September 29, 2023 Fire safety | Conduct testing and exercise requirements. Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies · Tag E0039 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected November 30, 2023 |
| September 29, 2023 Fire safety | Have simulated fire drills held at unexpected times. Miscellaneous Deficiencies · Tag K0712 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected November 30, 2023 |
| September 29, 2023 Fire safety | Have elevators that firefighters can control in the event of a fire. Services Deficiencies · Tag K0531 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected November 30, 2023 |
| September 29, 2023 Fire safety | Provide exit doors that are held open by devices that will automatically close on the activation of a fire alarm or smoke detector. Egress Deficiencies · Tag K0223 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected November 30, 2023 |
| September 29, 2023 Standard | Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program. Infection Control Deficiencies · Tag F0880 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected October 20, 2023 |
| September 29, 2023 Standard | Honor the resident's right to organize and participate in resident/family groups in the facility. Resident Rights Deficiencies · Tag F0565 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected October 20, 2023 |
| September 29, 2023 Standard | Provide enough nursing staff every day to meet the needs of every resident; and have a licensed nurse in charge on each shift. Nursing and Physician Services Deficiencies · Tag F0725 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected October 20, 2023 |
| September 29, 2023 Standard | Honor the resident's right to a dignified existence, self-determination, communication, and to exercise his or her rights. Resident Rights Deficiencies · Tag F0550 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected October 20, 2023 |
| September 29, 2023 Standard | Keep residents' personal and medical records private and confidential. Resident Rights Deficiencies · Tag F0583 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected October 20, 2023 |
Severity letters follow the CMS scope-and-severity grid: A–C no actual harm with potential for minimal harm; D–F potential for more than minimal harm; G–I actual harm; J–L immediate jeopardy to resident health or safety. How to read inspection citations.
Fines and payment denials
CMS reports 1 federal penalty in the past three years, including $60,590 in fines.
| Date | Penalty | Amount / length |
|---|---|---|
| February 22, 2024 | Fine | $60,590 |
Owners and managers
Individuals and organizations reported to CMS as owning or operating this nursing home.
| Name | Role | Share | Since |
|---|---|---|---|
| JOHNSON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL Organization | 5% or greater direct ownership interest | 100% | 03/01/2013 |
| BAKER, STEPHEN Individual | contracted managing employee | NOT APPLICABLE | 03/01/2013 |
| BERKHOUSE, STEVEN Individual | corporate director | NOT APPLICABLE | 10/18/2021 |
| DUNKLE, DAVID Individual | corporate director | NOT APPLICABLE | 03/01/2019 |
| BERKHOUSE, STEVEN Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 10/18/2021 |
| DUNKLE, DAVID Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 06/01/2019 |
| DUNKLE, DAVID Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 03/01/2019 |
| THE WATERS OF COLUMBIA CITY SKILLED NURSING FACILITY LLC Organization | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 11/01/2022 |
| DECOLA, ROBERT Individual | w-2 managing employee | NOT APPLICABLE | 02/16/2019 |
Other nursing homes near Waters of Columbia City Skilled Nursing Facility
Miller's at Oak Pointe
411 N Wolf Rd, Columbia City, IN 46725 · 2.1 mi
For-profit · 82 beds · Part of Miller's Merry Manor
★★★★★3AverageMajestic Care of West Allen
6050 S Cr 800 E 92, Fort Wayne, IN 46814 · 10 mi
For-profit · 96 beds · Part of Majestic Care
★★★★★4Above averageSage Bluff Health and Rehab Center
4180 Sage Bluff Crossing, Fort Wayne, IN 46804 · 15.6 mi
For-profit · 84 beds · Part of Major Hospital
★★★★★3AverageCoventry Meadows
7843 W Jefferson Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46804 · 15.6 mi
For-profit · 150 beds · Part of American Senior Communities
★★★★★5Much above averageMajestic Care of Jefferson Pointe
5700 Wilkie Dr, Fort Wayne, IN 46804 · 16.1 mi
For-profit · 135 beds · Part of Majestic Care
★★★★★1Much below averageTimbercrest Church of the Brethren Home
2201 East St, North Manchester, IN 46962 · 16.4 mi
Government · 65 beds
★★★★★4Above average
All nursing homes in Columbia City, IN · Compare side by side
Frequently asked questions
What is Waters of Columbia City Skilled Nursing Facility's rating?
Waters of Columbia City Skilled Nursing Facility has 3 out of 5 stars on the CMS overall star rating. The average for Indiana nursing homes is 3.1 stars.
How many inspection citations did Waters of Columbia City Skilled Nursing Facility receive?
Its most recent standard health inspection found 5 citations, compared with a Indiana average of 7.2. Every citation is listed on this page with its severity.
Does Waters of Columbia City Skilled Nursing Facility accept Medicare and Medicaid?
CMS lists it as certified for: Medicare and Medicaid. Call the facility to confirm bed availability and whether it accepts your specific plan.
Who owns Waters of Columbia City Skilled Nursing Facility?
It is for profit - corporation and part of Infinity Healthcare Consulting. The ownership section on this page lists the owners and managers reported to CMS.
Where is Waters of Columbia City Skilled Nursing Facility and how do I contact it?
Waters of Columbia City Skilled Nursing Facility is at 640 W Ellsworth St, Columbia City, IN 46725. Phone: (260) 248-8101.
About this data
Ratings and measures come from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Medicare Care Compare. They're based on state inspections, patient surveys and facility reports, and they describe the past. Facilities change, so visit in person and confirm details directly. About our data · Spotted an error? Let us know.