Fort Hudson Health System Announces Sale of Nursing Home – And a Bold Step Toward the Future
For more than 55 years, Fort Hudson has been a trusted cornerstone of
care in our region, known for its exceptional service, compassionate staff, and unwavering
commitment to community well-being. Since opening its doors in 1970 as an 80-bed
facility, Fort Hudson has grown into a regional leader, now operating a 196-bed nursing
home and six affiliate programs that serve thousands of individuals annually across more
than 10,000 square miles.
Fort Hudson Nursing Center is the only remaining not-for-profit nursing home provider in Warren,
Washington, Essex, and Clinton counties. Today, in response to the changing landscape of
skilled nursing care in New York State, Fort Hudson Health System announced a strategic transition that
will ensure continued access to high-quality care for our community.
Pending approval by the New York State Department of Health, Fort Hudson Nursing Center
will be acquired by Fort Edward Health and Rehabilitation LLC. This provider shares Fort
Hudson’s values and commitment to excellence and brings the resources needed to
sustain and enhance care for residents and families. Importantly, this transition
affects only the Nursing Center.
Fort Hudson Health System will continue to operate—and expand—its other vital services,
including homecare, companion care, care management for adults and children, social adult day care,
and independent senior living. “This decision reflects our deep commitment to the future
of care in our region,” said Andrew Cruikshank, CEO of Fort Hudson Health System.
“After careful evaluation, our Board and leadership team chose a path that protects local access
to long-term care,supports our dedicated staff, and strengthens Fort Hudson’s ability to grow.
Fort Edward Health and Rehabilitation is aligned with these priorities and will help ensure continuity
and quality for years to come.”
The transition comes amid persistent financial challenges in the skilled nursing sector.
New York State failed to provide inflationary Medicaid adjustments for 15 consecutive
years, while implementing further reimbursement cuts. Today’s rates are based on costs
from 2007. Recent budget increases have been insufficient and delayed, leaving facilities
like Fort Hudson in unsustainable conditions. Federal budget actions have added further
pressure, with more constraints expected in the upcoming State budget.
Since 2020, 18 not-for-profit nursing homes have closed in New York, with eight closures in
the past two years alone. An additional 16 are in the process of sale, and up to 20 more are
actively planning transitions. Fort Hudson, like many facilities, serves a high Medicaid
population, over 70%, yet Medicaid reimbursement remains far below the actual cost of
care.
While the sale of the nursing facility is a difficult but necessary step, it positions Fort
Hudson for a strong and vibrant future. “Fort Hudson has built its home and community
based programs with the same dedication to quality and expertise that defined our Nursing
Center,” said Peter Young, President of the Board of Directors. “We are excited to begin this
new chapter, expanding our reach and deepening our impact across the region.”
“We are profoundly grateful for the trust and support of our community over the past five
decades,” added Cruikshank. “This transition ensures continued access to quality nursing
care, while empowering Fort Hudson to grow and innovate in the areas of care that are
increasingly vital to our region’s future.”
