nursing home in Santa Barbara, CA
Buena Vista Care Center
160 South Patterson Avenue, Santa Barbara, CA 93111 · (805) 964-4871
★★★★★2
Below average
CMS overall star rating
CMS overall star rating
- Health inspections★★★★★2
- Staffing★★★★★3
- Quality measures★★★★★4
Source: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Medicare Care Compare. We refresh our information from this source. About our data
Buena Vista Care Center at a glance
Buena Vista Care Center is a 150-bed for-profit nursing home in Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara County).
CMS gives it 2 out of 5 stars on its overall star rating, worse than the California average of 3.2.
Residents receive about 3.9 hours of nursing care per day (0.4 of them from registered nurses), worse than the state average of 4.5 hours.
Its most recent standard health inspection (April 10, 2026) found 8 health citations. The California average is 15.5.
It has not received a federal fine in the past three years.
Nursing staff turnover is 47.6% per year (state average 36.7%).
Facility details
- Type
- Nursing home
- Ownership
- For Profit - Limited Liability Company
- Beds
- 150
- Certified for
- Medicare and Medicaid
- Chain / affiliated entity
- Covenant Care
- Medicare-certified since
- November 20, 1989
- Resident/family council
- Resident
- County
- Santa Barbara County
- CMS Certification Number
- 555394
Ratings
| Measure | This facility | California avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall star rating ⓘ (higher is better) | 2 / 5 | 3.2 / 5 | 3 / 5 | Worse |
| Health inspection rating ⓘ (higher is better) | 2 / 5 | 2.8 / 5 | 2.8 / 5 | Worse |
| Staffing rating ⓘ (higher is better) | 3 / 5 | 3.3 / 5 | 2.9 / 5 | Average |
| Quality measures rating ⓘ (higher is better) | 4 / 5 | 4.1 / 5 | 3.6 / 5 | Average |
| Long-stay quality rating (higher is better) | 4 / 5 | 4.4 / 5 | 3.8 / 5 | Average |
| Short-stay (rehab) quality rating (higher is better) | 4 / 5 | 3.6 / 5 | 3.3 / 5 | Better |
Staffing
| Measure | This facility | California avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total nurse staff hours per resident per day ⓘ (higher is better) | 3.91 hrs | 4.52 hrs | 3.86 hrs | Average |
| Registered nurse hours per resident per day (higher is better) | 0.44 hrs | 0.67 hrs | 0.69 hrs | Worse |
| Nurse aide hours per resident per day (higher is better) | 2.36 hrs | 2.65 hrs | 2.32 hrs | Average |
| Weekend nurse staff hours per resident per day (higher is better) | 3.47 hrs | 4.09 hrs | 3.42 hrs | Average |
| Nursing staff turnover (yearly) (lower is better) | 47.6% | 36.7% | 45.8% | Average |
| Registered nurse turnover (yearly) (lower is better) | 57.1% | 38.1% | 42.9% | Worse |
| Administrators who left in the past year (lower is better) | 2 | 0 | 1 | Worse |
Inspections
| Measure | This facility | California avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health citations in the most recent inspection (lower is better) | 8 | 16 | 9 | Better |
| Citations from complaint investigations (latest cycle) (lower is better) | 4 | 4 | 3 | Worse |
| Weighted health inspection score ⓘ (lower is better) | 110.3 | 105.8 | 80.6 | Worse |
Penalties
| Measure | This facility | California avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fines in the past 3 years (lower is better) | 0 | 1 | 1 | Better |
| Total fines in the past 3 years (lower is better) | $0 | $23,986 | $30,972 | Better |
| All federal penalties in the past 3 years (lower is better) | 0 | 1 | 1 | Better |
Size
| Measure | This facility | California avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Certified beds | 150 | 99 | 107 | |
| Average residents per day | 120 | 88 | 86 | |
| Occupancy | 80.2% | 88.4% | 80.9% |
Long-stay residents
| Measure | This facility | California avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long-stay residents with a fall causing major injury (lower is better) | 2.8% | 1.6% | 3.2% | Better |
| Long-stay residents with pressure ulcers (lower is better) | 5.6% | 4.3% | 4.6% | Worse |
| Long-stay residents given antipsychotic medication (lower is better) | 4.9% | 12% | 15.4% | Better |
| Long-stay residents with a urinary tract infection (lower is better) | 0.8% | 1.2% | 1.6% | Better |
| Long-stay residents with a catheter left in the bladder (lower is better) | 1.1% | 0.8% | 0.8% | Worse |
| Long-stay residents needing more help with daily activities (lower is better) | 4.6% | 10.2% | 13.9% | Better |
| Long-stay residents whose walking worsened (lower is better) | 8.7% | 9.8% | 14.1% | Better |
| Long-stay residents who lose too much weight (lower is better) | 2.7% | 4% | 5.2% | Better |
| Long-stay residents with depressive symptoms (lower is better) | 1.4% | 7.3% | 12.8% | Better |
| Long-stay residents who were physically restrained (lower is better) | 0% | 0.4% | 0.1% | Better |
| Long-stay residents given anti-anxiety or sleep medication (lower is better) | 4.4% | 13.7% | 19.5% | Better |
| Long-stay residents with new or worse incontinence (lower is better) | 21.8% | 10.2% | 19% | Worse |
| Long-stay residents given a flu vaccine (higher is better) | 100% | 98.2% | 95.5% | Average |
| Long-stay residents given a pneumonia vaccine (higher is better) | 100% | 98.6% | 93.6% | Better |
Short-stay residents
| Measure | This facility | California avg. | U.S. avg. | vs. U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-stay residents newly given antipsychotic medication (lower is better) | 0% | 1.5% | 1.6% | Better |
| Short-stay residents given a flu vaccine (higher is better) | 100% | 93.2% | 79.8% | Better |
| Short-stay residents given a pneumonia vaccine (higher is better) | 100% | 94.4% | 82% | Better |
Inspection citations
State inspectors cited this home for 32 health deficiencies and 20 fire safety deficiencies in the inspection records CMS currently publishes. 2 citations involved actual harm, including 1 rated "immediate jeopardy".
| Date | Citation | Severity | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 10, 2026 Fire safety | Have generator or other power source capable of supplying service within 10 seconds. Gas, Vacuum, and Electrical Systems Deficiencies · Tag K0918 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected May 11, 2026 |
| April 10, 2026 Fire safety | Properly provide smoke detection systems in areas open to corridors. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0347 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected May 11, 2026 |
| April 10, 2026 Fire safety | Install an approved automatic sprinkler system. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0351 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected May 11, 2026 |
| April 10, 2026 Fire safety | Ensure proper usage of power strips and extension cords. Gas, Vacuum, and Electrical Systems Deficiencies · Tag K0920 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected May 11, 2026 |
| April 10, 2026 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 May 11, 2026 |
| April 10, 2026 Fire safety | Follow proper procedures when the automatic sprinkler systems was out of service for more than 10 hours. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0354 | C No harm, widespread | Corrected May 11, 2026 |
| April 10, 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 May 4, 2026 |
| April 10, 2026 Standard | Ensure services provided by the nursing facility meet professional standards of quality. Resident Assessment and Care Planning Deficiencies · Tag F0658 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected May 4, 2026 |
| April 10, 2026 Standard | Ensure each resident receives and the facility provides food prepared in a form designed to meet individual needs. Nutrition and Dietary Deficiencies · Tag F0805 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected May 4, 2026 |
| April 10, 2026 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 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected May 4, 2026 |
| January 14, 2026 Complaint | Develop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured. Resident Assessment and Care Planning Deficiencies · Tag F0656 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected January 23, 2026 |
| October 20, 2025 Complaint | Develop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured. Resident Assessment and Care Planning Deficiencies · Tag F0656 | G Actual harm, isolated | Corrected December 15, 2025 |
| October 3, 2025 Complaint | Ensure that a nursing home area is free from accident hazards and provides adequate supervision to prevent accidents. Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies · Tag F0689 | J Immediate jeopardy, isolated | Corrected December 17, 2025 |
| October 3, 2025 Complaint | Keep all essential equipment working safely. Environmental Deficiencies · Tag F0908 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected December 17, 2025 |
| August 20, 2025 Complaint | Provide safe, appropriate pain management for a resident who requires such services. Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies · Tag F0697 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected September 1, 2025 |
| May 2, 2025 Complaint | Safeguard resident-identifiable information and/or maintain medical records on each resident that are in accordance with accepted professional standards. Resident Assessment and Care Planning Deficiencies · Tag F0842 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected May 16, 2025 |
| March 20, 2025 Complaint | 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 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected April 15, 2025 |
| March 7, 2025 Complaint | Develop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured. Resident Assessment and Care Planning Deficiencies · Tag F0656 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected April 14, 2025 |
| March 7, 2025 Complaint | Make sure that the nursing home area is safe, easy to use, clean and comfortable for residents, staff and the public. Environmental Deficiencies · Tag F0921 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected April 14, 2025 |
| January 17, 2025 Fire safety | Ensure heating and ventilation systems that have been properly installed according to the manufacturer's instructions. Services Deficiencies · Tag K0521 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected February 16, 2025 |
| January 17, 2025 Fire safety | Have generator or other power source capable of supplying service within 10 seconds. Gas, Vacuum, and Electrical Systems Deficiencies · Tag K0918 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected February 16, 2025 |
| January 17, 2025 Fire safety | Have properly located and lighted "Exit" signs. Egress Deficiencies · Tag K0293 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected February 16, 2025 |
| January 17, 2025 Fire safety | Inspect, test, and maintain automatic sprinkler systems. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0353 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected February 16, 2025 |
| January 17, 2025 Fire safety | Ensure receptacles at patient bed locations and where general anesthesia is administered, are tested after initial installation, replacement or servicing. Gas, Vacuum, and Electrical Systems Deficiencies · Tag K0914 | F Potential harm, widespread | Corrected February 16, 2025 |
| January 17, 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 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected February 16, 2025 |
| January 17, 2025 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 February 16, 2025 |
| January 17, 2025 Fire safety | Ensure proper usage of power strips and extension cords. Gas, Vacuum, and Electrical Systems Deficiencies · Tag K0920 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected February 16, 2025 |
| January 17, 2025 Fire safety | Properly provide smoke detection systems in areas open to corridors. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0347 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected February 16, 2025 |
| January 17, 2025 Fire safety | Meet other general requirements that are deficient. Services Deficiencies · Tag K0500 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected February 16, 2025 |
| January 17, 2025 Fire safety | Install emergency lighting that can last at least 1 1/2 hours. Egress Deficiencies · Tag K0291 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected February 16, 2025 |
| January 17, 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 February 17, 2025 |
| January 17, 2025 Standard | Ensure each resident receives an accurate assessment. Resident Assessment and Care Planning Deficiencies · Tag F0641 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected February 17, 2025 |
| January 17, 2025 Standard | Allow residents to self-administer drugs if determined clinically appropriate. Resident Rights Deficiencies · Tag F0554 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected February 17, 2025 |
| January 17, 2025 Standard | PASARR screening for Mental disorders or Intellectual Disabilities Resident Assessment and Care Planning Deficiencies · Tag F0645 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected February 17, 2025 |
| January 17, 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 February 17, 2025 |
| August 8, 2024 Complaint | Immediately tell the resident, the resident's doctor, and a family member of situations (injury/decline/room, etc.) that affect the resident. Resident Rights Deficiencies · Tag F0580 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected September 3, 2024 |
| April 23, 2024 Complaint | 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 May 3, 2024 |
| April 3, 2024 Complaint | Properly hold, secure, and manage each resident's personal money which is deposited with the nursing home. Resident Rights Deficiencies · Tag F0568 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected April 15, 2024 |
| January 12, 2024 Complaint | Develop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured. Resident Assessment and Care Planning Deficiencies · Tag F0656 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected January 22, 2024 |
| December 26, 2023 Complaint | 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 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected January 8, 2024 |
| March 3, 2022 Fire safety | Inspect, test, and maintain automatic sprinkler systems. Smoke Deficiencies · Tag K0353 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected March 16, 2022 |
| March 3, 2022 Fire safety | Ensure proper usage of power strips and extension cords. Gas, Vacuum, and Electrical Systems Deficiencies · Tag K0920 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected March 16, 2022 |
| March 3, 2022 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 March 16, 2022 |
| March 3, 2022 Standard | Safeguard resident-identifiable information and/or maintain medical records on each resident that are in accordance with accepted professional standards. Resident Assessment and Care Planning Deficiencies · Tag F0842 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected May 3, 2022 |
| March 3, 2022 Standard | Make sure there is a pest control program to prevent/deal with mice, insects, or other pests. Environmental Deficiencies · Tag F0925 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected May 3, 2022 |
| March 3, 2022 Standard | Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program. Infection Control Deficiencies · Tag F0880 | E Potential harm, pattern | Corrected May 3, 2022 |
| March 3, 2022 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 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected May 3, 2022 |
| March 3, 2022 Standard | Develop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured. Resident Assessment and Care Planning Deficiencies · Tag F0656 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected May 3, 2022 |
| March 3, 2022 Standard | Provide pharmaceutical services to meet the needs of each resident and employ or obtain the services of a licensed pharmacist. Pharmacy Service Deficiencies · Tag F0755 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected May 3, 2022 |
| March 3, 2022 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 May 3, 2022 |
| March 3, 2022 Standard | Ensure each resident receives and the facility provides food that accommodates resident allergies, intolerances, and preferences, as well as appealing options. Nutrition and Dietary Deficiencies · Tag F0806 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected May 3, 2022 |
| March 3, 2022 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 | D Potential harm, isolated | Corrected May 3, 2022 |
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 no federal fines or payment denials in the past three years.
Owners and managers
Individuals and organizations reported to CMS as owning or operating this nursing home.
| Name | Role | Share | Since |
|---|---|---|---|
| COVENANT CARE CALIFORNIA, LLC Organization | 5% or greater direct ownership interest | — | 07/17/2008 |
| COVENANT CARE, LLC Organization | 5% or greater direct ownership interest | — | 07/17/2008 |
| CENTRE CAPITAL INVESTORS V, LP Organization | 5% or greater indirect ownership interest | — | 07/17/2008 |
| CENTRE COVENANT PURCHASER (B), LLC Organization | 5% or greater indirect ownership interest | — | 07/17/2008 |
| CENTRE COVENANT PURCHASER (Q), LLC Organization | 5% or greater indirect ownership interest | — | 07/17/2008 |
| CENTRE COVENANT PURCHASER (S), LLC Organization | 5% or greater indirect ownership interest | — | 12/19/2008 |
| CENTRE V SECONDARY FUND, L.P. Organization | 5% or greater indirect ownership interest | — | 07/17/2008 |
| COVENANT HOLDCO, LLC Organization | 5% or greater indirect ownership interest | — | 07/17/2008 |
| COVENANT SUBCO, LLC Organization | 5% or greater indirect ownership interest | — | 07/17/2008 |
| EVANS, MARY Individual | 5% or greater indirect ownership interest | — | 07/17/2008 |
| LEVIN, ROBERT Individual | 5% or greater indirect ownership interest | — | 07/17/2008 |
| SIMS, CHRISTINE Individual | 5% or greater indirect ownership interest | — | 07/17/2008 |
| STATE TREASURER OF MICH CUSTODIAN OF PUBLIC SCHOOL EMPL RTMNT SYSTEMS Organization | 5% or greater indirect ownership interest | — | 12/19/2008 |
| STOCKWELL FUND II LP Organization | 5% or greater indirect ownership interest | — | 12/19/2008 |
| TOROK, ANDREW Individual | 5% or greater indirect ownership interest | — | 07/17/2008 |
| MIDCAP FUNDING IV TRUST Organization | 5% or greater security interest | NOT APPLICABLE | 02/20/2014 |
| ASHLEY, DAVA Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 05/17/2018 |
| CARNEY, KEVIN Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 11/01/2013 |
| EVANS, MARY Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 11/01/2013 |
| HASSELL, LANCE Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 05/17/2018 |
| LEVIN, ROBERT Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 11/01/2013 |
| SIMS, CHRISTINE Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 11/01/2013 |
| TOROK, ANDREW Individual | corporate officer | NOT APPLICABLE | 11/01/2013 |
| ASHLEY, DAVA Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 03/26/2018 |
| EVANS, MARY Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 04/14/2006 |
| HASSELL, LANCE Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 05/17/2018 |
| LEVIN, ROBERT Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 04/14/2006 |
| SIMS, CHRISTINE Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 04/14/2006 |
| SPARKS, CAROL Individual | operational/managerial control | NOT APPLICABLE | 04/17/2006 |
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- CMS high performer
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★★★★★5Much above averageThe Californian
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Frequently asked questions
What is Buena Vista Care Center's rating?
Buena Vista Care Center has 2 out of 5 stars on the CMS overall star rating. The average for California nursing homes is 3.2 stars.
How many inspection citations did Buena Vista Care Center receive?
Its most recent standard health inspection found 8 citations, compared with a California average of 15.5. Every citation is listed on this page with its severity.
Does Buena Vista Care Center 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 Buena Vista Care Center?
It is for profit - limited liability company and part of Covenant Care. The ownership section on this page lists the owners and managers reported to CMS.
Where is Buena Vista Care Center and how do I contact it?
Buena Vista Care Center is at 160 South Patterson Avenue, Santa Barbara, CA 93111. Phone: (805) 964-4871.
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.