408 Brighton Avenue, Portland, ME 04102
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
Gary was patient with the patient and provided honest feedback and tips on healing. The staff were described as wonderful. All staff were friendly and knowledgeable. The triage nurses were very attentive. A CAT scan and an accurate diagnosis reportedly saved a life. The care was described as accommodating, kind, helpful, reassuring, and positive.
The facility has a horrendous patient-to-staff ratio, incessant nurse bells, and rundown rooms with little privacy, blamed on the administration. It bills itself as an Emergency Room but charges ER-level fees, leading some to call the practice fraudulent. A patient experienced nerve loss and infection after an IV, with slow or no follow-up from staff. Self-pay quotes are not honored; patients are billed over $1,000 for visits initially quoted at a much lower amount. Radiology waits are long and staff are rude, reflecting poor hospital management. COVID-19 testing can total about $2,000 for four tests, with inconsistent charges and disputes over what's billed. Communication with loved ones is terrible; attempts to get updates are met with delays or redirected to others. Appointments are set but not followed through, causing wasted time and gas, with long triage waits.A mosaic of opinions emerges from a long row of patient experiences at this Maine Health facility on Brighton Avenue. Taken together, the reviews paint a picture of a hospital that can feel crowded and aging to some, while still delivering moments of solid care and professionalism to others. Across the board there is a strong thread about the tension between urgent medical need and the logistics of a busy, ER-focused environment. Several patients describe an overwhelmed system where staff are:
- stretched thin by patient load - trying to do their best in a setting that feels dated and noisy - sometimes quick to praise individual clinicians even as they critique the broader organization
In one set of remarks, the overall environment is described as "horrendous" in terms of patient-to-staff ratios, constant nurse call bells, and rooms that feel rundown with little privacy. The complaints aren't about the clinicians alone; they're about the setting and the management that seems to tolerate, or at least not address, long waits, crowded hallways, and insufficient privacy. Another patient echoes the sentiment, noting the facility hasn't changed much since the 1990s aside from the removed smoking areas, which underscores a perception of aging infrastructure and limited upgrades. Taken together, these points frame a facility that many patients view as ill-equipped to deliver comfortable, private, and efficient care in a high-demand environment.
A striking and recurring theme is the confusion around whether visits are being billed as Emergency Room visits or as urgent care. Several reviewers explicitly warn that the site bills as an ER visit and can result in ER-level charges, even when the care may be appropriate for urgent care. That misalignment between what patients expect and what the billing subsystem charges is repeatedly cited as a core frustration. One reviewer shares a painful example: a skin infection visit billed at well over $1,000 after an upfront quote of $300, with the explanation of a "professional fee" layered on top of a supposed urgent care visit. Another patient reports a staggering bill for four Covid tests - around $2,000 total - with inconsistent line-items and a refusal to revisit the charges because the patient was out of network. These accounts feed a broader concern: the system's transparency and consistency in pricing, the reliability of up-front quotes, and the communication around what patients will owe before and after a visit.
Within the care experiences themselves, there are sharp contrasts. Some reviewers describe very efficient and professional interactions once the patient is in a room or seen by a clinician. A couple of accounts highlight rapid testing and imaging workflows: an ankle injury case where triage nurses were "the best" and X-ray results appeared in MyChart almost immediately, and another where a CAT scan promptly contributed to a life-saving diagnosis. In these moments, patients call out specific staff as exemplary - clinical teams that were helpful, reassuring, and clear about next steps. One comment lauds the radiology team for a CAT scan that felt supportive and compassionate, while another notes that a visiting clinician promptly provided guidance and follow-up instructions. These instances illustrate that when the system works efficiently for a given patient, the experience can be genuinely positive and reassuring.
Yet there are equally serious cautions about safety and communication. A particularly troubling anecdote describes a nurse who, during IV administration, hit a nerve and caused rapid loss of sensation in an entire arm. The patient reported that staff were unresponsive for a period, leading to repeated hallway visits and delays before action was taken. The account extends to subsequent infection at the injection site and a grievance that escalated to a criminal harassment notice against Maine Health facilities for that experience. While this is a single, highly alarming incident among many experiences, it anchors a crucial warning: serious adverse events and the downstream administrative or legal fallout can color a patient's view of the entire system, particularly when timely escalation and clear communication are missing.
Other reviews highlight the variability in wait times and the inconsistency of follow-through after appointments. A parent describes a two-hour visit for an 11-year-old's ankle, noting some waiting but appreciating attentive triage personnel and rapid receipt of imaging interpretations. Conversely, another reviewer laments appointment scheduling failures and a lack of proactive follow-up or rescheduling, which compounds distrust in the system and wastes patients' time and gas. There are also calls for better communication and more robust patient support - especially around updating family members about loved ones' status or arranging timely follow-up outside the hospital. Taken together, these reviews suggest a dual reality: moments of clear, competent care interwoven with administrative and logistical gaps that frustrate patients and erode confidence.
Finally, the reviews offer a mix of opinions about where to seek care and how to navigate costs. Several patients contrast this facility with quick-care options, noting that Quick Care sometimes offered faster, cheaper visits or easier access to prescriptions, albeit with their own trade-offs. Some patients explicitly advise avoiding this site for anything that might be billed as an ER visit and urge others to explore alternatives when possible. Others remain positive about particular experiences, praising staff who accommodated needs, offered reassurance, and delivered prompt imaging or treatment. The bottom line across these narratives is that while competent clinicians and efficient moments do exist, the experience is highly variable and filtered through the lens of cost, waiting times, and the hospital's billed categorization of urgent care versus emergency care.
If you're considering a visit, these reviews collectively point to a few practical takeaways. Expect variability in wait times and be prepared for the possibility that a visit might be billed as an ER encounter, with corresponding costs that may surprise you even if your visit doesn't feel like a true emergency. Ask questions about billing up front, get an itemized estimate when possible, and clarify whether the visit is being treated as urgent care or emergency care. Also weigh the trade-offs between this facility and nearby quick-care options, especially for non-life-threatening injuries or conditions where rapid outpatient imaging or simple prescriptions can make a difference. If you do go, you'll likely encounter competent, compassionate clinicians in moments of need, but you may also face crowded conditions, long waits, and challenging billing complexity - factors that color the overall experience in meaningful and sometimes frustrating ways.
2 resident community capacity
Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.
Portland International Jetport (2 miles away)
24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones. Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life. Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life. Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications. Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults. Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.Brighton A in Portland, ME is a premier assisted living community that provides exceptional care and support to its residents. The community offers a range of amenities to ensure comfort and convenience including a dining room where delicious meals are served, fully furnished accommodations, a beautiful garden for residents to enjoy, housekeeping services to maintain cleanliness, move-in coordination to assist with the transition process, outdoor space for relaxation and recreation, telephone and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access for staying connected.
At Brighton A, the well-being of our residents is our top priority. Our dedicated team of caregivers provide assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing and transfers. We also coordinate with health care providers to ensure that residents receive the necessary medical attention and support. For those with special dietary needs or restrictions, our dining services accommodate their requirements. We offer diabetes diet options and can accommodate special dietary restrictions.
Engaging activities are an integral part of life at Brighton A. Residents can participate in scheduled daily activities that promote socialization and enjoyment. Additionally, there are numerous amenities nearby that cater to different interests. With 12 cafes, 5 parks, 11 pharmacies, 25 physicians, 35 restaurants, 4 transportation options, 1 theater nearby, residents have easy access to various services and entertainment options.
The safety and well-being of our residents are paramount. We provide medication management services to ensure that medications are taken properly and on time. Transportation arrangements are available for medical appointments for added convenience.
Choose Brighton A in Portland, ME for a comfortable assisted living experience where your loved ones will be cared for by dedicated professionals in a vibrant community surrounded by various amenities and nearby services.
Brighton A is located at 408 Brighton Avenue, Portland, ME 04102 in Cumberland County, Maine
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