Overview
NorthCrest Specialty Care, located in Waterloo, Iowa, is a 94-bed skilled nursing facility that provides a range of services including rehabilitation, skilled nursing care, long-term care, and hospice care. As a part of Care Initiatives, Iowa’s largest not-for-profit skilled nursing and long-term care provider, NorthCrest aims to deliver compassionate transitional health care to individuals at various stages of life.
Services & Support
NorthCrest Specialty Care offers a variety of services designed to meet the needs of its residents. This includes skilled nursing care, rehabilitation services, and hospice care. The facility also provides physical therapy and social worker support to assist residents and their families through their care journey.
Care Approach & Staff
The staff at NorthCrest is dedicated to providing compassionate and dignified care. Many families have noted the kindness and helpfulness of the caregivers, which has made challenging situations more manageable. However, there have been reports of understaffing that may affect the level of attention residents receive, particularly during busy times.
Who They Serve
NorthCrest Specialty Care serves a diverse population, including individuals recovering from surgery, those requiring long-term care, and patients in need of hospice services. The facility also accommodates veterans through its participation in the Veterans Affairs Community Nursing Home Program.
Levels of Care
Residents at NorthCrest have access to various levels of care, including skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and hospice care. This flexibility allows the facility to cater to the unique needs of each individual, whether they are in recovery or requiring ongoing support.
Living Options & Amenities
The facility is described as modern and clean, contributing to a pleasant living environment. While some reviews highlight the cleanliness and overall atmosphere, there are concerns regarding room conditions, which have been reported as not always meeting expected standards.
Dining & Activities
Dining experiences at NorthCrest have received mixed feedback. While some residents have enjoyed the food, others have expressed dissatisfaction, particularly regarding the temperature and quality of meals served.
What Families Say
Feedback from families is varied. Many express gratitude for the care their loved ones received, particularly in terms of therapy and rehabilitation. However, there are serious concerns raised about communication and responsiveness from the staff, with some families feeling that they had to advocate heavily for their loved ones’ needs. Positive experiences often highlight the dedication of individual caregivers, while negative experiences point to systemic issues within the facility.
Room for Improvement
Several families have noted issues related to communication and staffing levels, which may impact the quality of care. Concerns about room cleanliness and responsiveness to call lights have also been raised, suggesting that there is room for improvement in these areas.
Summary
NorthCrest Specialty Care offers a range of services for individuals in need of skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and hospice care. While many families appreciate the compassionate staff and modern facility, there are notable concerns regarding communication, staffing, and overall responsiveness. Families considering NorthCrest should weigh these factors carefully as they seek the best care for their loved ones.



