nursing home in Athens, TN
Life Care Center of Athens
1234 Frye Street PO Box 786, Athens, TN 37371 · (423) 745-8181
★★★★★2
Below average
CMS overall star rating
CMS overall star rating
- Health inspections★★★★★1
- Staffing★★★★★4
- Quality measures★★★★★5
- Abuse citation
Source: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Medicare Care Compare. We refresh our information from this source. About our data
Life Care Center of Athens at a glance
Life Care Center of Athens is a 128-bed for-profit nursing home in Athens, Tennessee (Mc Minn County).
CMS gives it 2 out of 5 stars on its overall star rating, worse than the Tennessee average of 3.
Residents receive about 3.5 hours of nursing care per day (0.9 of them from registered nurses), worse than the state average of 3.8 hours.
Its most recent standard health inspection (March 28, 2026) found 12 health citations. The Tennessee average is 4.4.
Federal regulators fined it 1 time in the past three years, totaling $19,145.
Nursing staff turnover is 29.4% per year (state average 48.9%).
Facility details
- Type
- Nursing home
- Ownership
- For Profit - Corporation
- Beds
- 128
- Certified for
- Medicare and Medicaid
- Chain / affiliated entity
- Life Care Centers of America
- Medicare-certified since
- September 1, 1992
- Resident/family council
- Both
- County
- Mc Minn County
- CMS Certification Number
- 445298
Ratings
| Measure | This facility | Tennessee avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall star rating ⓘ (higher is better) | 2 / 5 | 3 / 5 | 3 / 5 | Worse |
| Health inspection rating ⓘ (higher is better) | 1 / 5 | 3 / 5 | 2.8 / 5 | Worse |
| Staffing rating ⓘ (higher is better) | 4 / 5 | 2.5 / 5 | 2.9 / 5 | Better |
| Quality measures rating ⓘ (higher is better) | 5 / 5 | 3.6 / 5 | 3.6 / 5 | Better |
| Long-stay quality rating (higher is better) | 4 / 5 | 3.6 / 5 | 3.8 / 5 | Average |
| Short-stay (rehab) quality rating (higher is better) | 5 / 5 | 3.4 / 5 | 3.3 / 5 | Better |
Staffing
| Measure | This facility | Tennessee avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total nurse staff hours per resident per day ⓘ (higher is better) | 3.54 hrs | 3.80 hrs | 3.86 hrs | Worse |
| Registered nurse hours per resident per day (higher is better) | 0.92 hrs | 0.60 hrs | 0.69 hrs | Better |
| Nurse aide hours per resident per day (higher is better) | 2.03 hrs | 2.12 hrs | 2.32 hrs | Worse |
| Weekend nurse staff hours per resident per day (higher is better) | 3.18 hrs | 3.31 hrs | 3.42 hrs | Worse |
| Nursing staff turnover (yearly) (lower is better) | 29.4% | 48.9% | 45.8% | Better |
| Registered nurse turnover (yearly) (lower is better) | 23.8% | 43.2% | 42.9% | Better |
| Administrators who left in the past year (lower is better) | 0 | 1 | 1 | Better |
Inspections
| Measure | This facility | Tennessee avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health citations in the most recent inspection (lower is better) | 12 | 4 | 9 | Worse |
| Citations from complaint investigations (latest cycle) (lower is better) | 0 | 1 | 3 | Better |
| Weighted health inspection score ⓘ (lower is better) | 110.3 | 47.9 | 80.6 | Worse |
Penalties
| Measure | This facility | Tennessee avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fines in the past 3 years (lower is better) | 1 | 1 | 1 | Worse |
| Total fines in the past 3 years (lower is better) | $19,145 | $22,907 | $30,972 | Better |
| All federal penalties in the past 3 years (lower is better) | 1 | 1 | 1 | Average |
Size
| Measure | This facility | Tennessee avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Certified beds | 128 | 114 | 107 | |
| Average residents per day | 95 | 84 | 86 | |
| Occupancy | 74.4% | 74.8% | 80.9% |
Long-stay residents
| Measure | This facility | Tennessee avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long-stay residents with a fall causing major injury (lower is better) | 3.3% | 3.4% | 3.2% | Average |
| Long-stay residents with pressure ulcers (lower is better) | 5.3% | 5% | 4.6% | Worse |
| Long-stay residents given antipsychotic medication (lower is better) | 28.7% | 16.8% | 15.4% | Worse |
| Long-stay residents with a urinary tract infection (lower is better) | 0.3% | 1.8% | 1.6% | Better |
| Long-stay residents with a catheter left in the bladder (lower is better) | 0.7% | 0.7% | 0.8% | Better |
| Long-stay residents needing more help with daily activities (lower is better) | 17.2% | 14% | 13.9% | Worse |
| Long-stay residents whose walking worsened (lower is better) | 10.2% | 17.2% | 14.1% | Better |
| Long-stay residents who lose too much weight (lower is better) | 6.5% | 6.1% | 5.2% | Worse |
| Long-stay residents with depressive symptoms (lower is better) | 5.9% | 13.8% | 12.8% | Better |
| Long-stay residents who were physically restrained (lower is better) | 0.7% | 0.1% | 0.1% | Worse |
| Long-stay residents given anti-anxiety or sleep medication (lower is better) | 28% | 31.7% | 19.5% | Worse |
| Long-stay residents with new or worse incontinence (lower is better) | 23% | 20% | 19% | Worse |
| Long-stay residents given a flu vaccine (higher is better) | 98.7% | 94.5% | 95.5% | Average |
| Long-stay residents given a pneumonia vaccine (higher is better) | 92.4% | 89.4% | 93.6% | Average |
Short-stay residents
| Measure | This facility | Tennessee avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-stay residents newly given antipsychotic medication (lower is better) | 0.6% | 1.7% | 1.6% | Better |
| Short-stay residents given a flu vaccine (higher is better) | 83.2% | 79.8% | 79.8% | Average |
| Short-stay residents given a pneumonia vaccine (higher is better) | 87.3% | 79.3% | 82% | Better |
Inspection citations
State inspectors cited this home for 16 health deficiencies and 7 fire safety deficiencies in the inspection records CMS currently publishes. 1 citation involved actual harm, including 1 rated "immediate jeopardy".
| Date | Citation | Severity | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 28, 2026 Standard | Protect each resident from all types of abuse such as physical, mental, sexual abuse, physical punishment, and neglect by anybody. Freedom from Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Deficiencies · Tag F0600 | J Immediate jeopardy, isolated | Corrected April 21, 2026 |
| March 28, 2026 Standard | Have a plan that describes the process for conducting QAPI and QAA activities. Administration Deficiencies · Tag F0865 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected April 21, 2026 |
| March 28, 2026 Standard | Administer the facility in a manner that enables it to use its resources effectively and efficiently. Administration Deficiencies · Tag F0835 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected April 21, 2026 |
| March 28, 2026 Standard | Protect each resident from separation (from other residents, his/her room, or confinement to his/her room). Freedom from Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Deficiencies · Tag F0603 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected April 21, 2026 |
| March 28, 2026 Standard | Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program. Infection Control Deficiencies · Tag F0880 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected April 21, 2026 |
| March 28, 2026 Standard | Reasonably accommodate the needs and preferences of each resident. Resident Rights Deficiencies · Tag F0558 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected April 21, 2026 |
| March 28, 2026 Standard | Respond appropriately to all alleged violations. Freedom from Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Deficiencies · Tag F0610 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected April 21, 2026 |
| March 28, 2026 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 April 21, 2026 |
| March 28, 2026 Standard | Provide appropriate foot care. Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies · Tag F0687 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected April 21, 2026 |
| March 28, 2026 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 April 21, 2026 |
| March 28, 2026 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 April 21, 2026 |
| March 28, 2026 Standard | Have a policy regarding use and storage of foods brought to residents by family and other visitors. Nutrition and Dietary Deficiencies · Tag F0813 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected April 21, 2026 |
| August 2, 2023 Fire safety | To conduct inspection, testing and maintenance of fire doors by qualified individuals. Miscellaneous Deficiencies · Tag K0761 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected September 1, 2023 |
| August 2, 2023 Fire safety | Add doors in an exit area that do not require the use of a key from the exit side unless in case of special locking arrangements. Egress Deficiencies · Tag K0222 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected September 1, 2023 |
| August 2, 2023 Fire safety | Establish staff and initial training requirements. Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies · Tag E0037 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected September 1, 2023 |
| August 2, 2023 Fire safety | Provide a written emergency evacuation plan. Miscellaneous Deficiencies · Tag K0711 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected September 1, 2023 |
| August 2, 2023 Fire safety | Install corridor and hallway doors that block smoke. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0363 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected September 1, 2023 |
| August 2, 2023 Fire safety | Provide properly protected cooking facilities. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0324 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected September 1, 2023 |
| November 14, 2019 Fire safety | Inspect, test, and maintain automatic sprinkler systems. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0353 | B No harm, pattern | Corrected November 20, 2019 |
| November 14, 2019 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 December 15, 2019 |
| November 14, 2019 Standard | Provide at least one room set aside to use as a resident dining room and for activities, that is a good size, with good lighting, air flow and furniture. Environmental Deficiencies · Tag F0920 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected December 15, 2019 |
| November 14, 2019 Standard | Allow residents to self-administer drugs if determined clinically appropriate. Resident Rights Deficiencies · Tag F0554 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected December 15, 2019 |
| November 14, 2019 Standard | Develop the complete care plan within 7 days of the comprehensive assessment; and prepared, reviewed, and revised by a team of health professionals. Resident Assessment and Care Planning Deficiencies · Tag F0657 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected December 15, 2019 |
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 $19,145 in fines.
| Date | Penalty | Amount / length |
|---|---|---|
| March 28, 2026 | Fine | $19,145 |
Owners and managers
Individuals and organizations reported to CMS as owning or operating this nursing home.
| Name | Role | Share | Since |
|---|---|---|---|
| LIFE CARE CENTERS OF AMERICA, INC. Organization | adp of the snf | NOT APPLICABLE | 01/31/2006 |
| MALONE, JOSHUE Individual | adp of the snf | NOT APPLICABLE | 02/21/2025 |
| PRESTON, FORREST Individual | adp of the snf | NOT APPLICABLE | 01/31/2006 |
| TURNBOUGH, VICKIE Individual | adp of the snf | NOT APPLICABLE | 03/07/2025 |
| FLETCHER, TODD Individual | corporate director | NOT APPLICABLE | 05/01/2021 |
| LAY, LISA Individual | corporate director | NOT APPLICABLE | 04/24/2017 |
| PRESTON, FORREST Individual | corporate director | NOT APPLICABLE | 01/06/1976 |
| SWANKER, RICHARD Individual | corporate director | NOT APPLICABLE | 01/01/2022 |
| ZIEGLER, JAMES Individual | corporate director | NOT APPLICABLE | 09/18/2001 |
| CROSS, CINDY Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 04/21/1994 |
| FLETCHER, TODD Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 11/02/2020 |
| HENRY, TERRY Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 08/16/1999 |
| LAY, LISA Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 02/09/2018 |
| PRESTON, FORREST Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 01/06/1976 |
| SWANKER, RICHARD Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 04/01/2011 |
| THURMOND, JOAN Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 09/22/2000 |
| ZIEGLER, JAMES Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 08/16/1999 |
| PRESTON, FORREST Individual | direct ownership interest | NOT APPLICABLE | 01/01/1996 |
| GOODMAN, SUSAN Individual | managing control - governing body | NOT APPLICABLE | 03/15/2011 |
| MALONE, JOSHUE Individual | managing control - governing body | NOT APPLICABLE | 10/23/2023 |
| SOLOMON, JENNIFER Individual | managing control - governing body | NOT APPLICABLE | 05/01/2019 |
| FLETCHER, TODD Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 05/01/2021 |
| GOODMAN, SUSAN Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 03/15/2011 |
| LAY, LISA Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 04/24/2017 |
| LIFE CARE CENTERS OF AMERICA, INC. Organization | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 04/01/1994 |
| MALONE, JOSHUE Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 10/23/2023 |
| PRESTON, AUBREY Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 11/27/2024 |
| PRESTON, FORREST Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 01/31/1992 |
| SOLOMON, JENNIFER Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 05/01/2019 |
| SWANKER, RICHARD Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 01/01/2022 |
| TURNBOUGH, VICKIE Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 09/01/2019 |
| ZIEGLER, JAMES Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 09/18/2001 |
Other nursing homes near Life Care Center of Athens
Nhc Healthcare, Athens
1204 Frye St, Athens, TN 37303 · under 1 mi
For-profit · 86 beds · Part of National Healthcare Corporation
★★★★★5Much above averageStarr Regional Health & Rehabilitation
886 Hwy 411 North, Etowah, TN 37331 · 7.2 mi
For-profit · 88 beds · Part of Lifepoint Health
- CMS high performer
★★★★★5Much above averageEtowah Health and Rehabilitation
409 Grady Road PO Box 957, Etowah, TN 37331 · 8.8 mi
For-profit · 120 beds
★★★★★1Much below averageWaters of Sweetwater A Rehabilitation & Nursing
978 Hwy 11 South, Sweetwater, TN 37874 · 11.3 mi
For-profit · 90 beds · Part of Infinity Healthcare Consulting
★★★★★2Below averageDecatur Wellness and Rehabilitation Center
332 River Road, Decatur, TN 37322 · 12.3 mi
For-profit · 88 beds · Part of Ahava Healthcare
★★★★★3AverageMonroe Health and Rehabilitation Center
465 Isbill Rd, Madisonville, TN 37354 · 13.1 mi
For-profit · 85 beds · Part of Champion Care
★★★★★3Average
Frequently asked questions
What is Life Care Center of Athens's rating?
Life Care Center of Athens has 2 out of 5 stars on the CMS overall star rating. The average for Tennessee nursing homes is 3 stars.
How many inspection citations did Life Care Center of Athens receive?
Its most recent standard health inspection found 12 citations, compared with a Tennessee average of 4.4. Every citation is listed on this page with its severity.
Does Life Care Center of Athens 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 Life Care Center of Athens?
It is for profit - corporation and part of Life Care Centers of America. The ownership section on this page lists the owners and managers reported to CMS.
Where is Life Care Center of Athens and how do I contact it?
Life Care Center of Athens is at 1234 Frye Street PO Box 786, Athens, TN 37371. Phone: (423) 745-8181.
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.