Clara Maass Medical Center

One Clara Maass Drive, Belleville, NJ 07109

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4.7 from 100 reviews
5 stars
90
4 stars
2
3 stars
2
2 stars
0
1 stars
6

Skilled Nursing Facility

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    Overall Review of Clara Maass Medical Center

    Pros

    • pro Analiza did an exemplary job in caring for my loved one post surgery.
    • pro The nurses were very kind and attentive.
    • pro Nurses and doctors are very professional.
    • pro Alexis, Yvonne, Pini, and Geraldine were very good.
    • pro Yvonne Spencer-Kelly and the morning team provided exceptional care; they were friendly and attentive.
    • pro Elvis Valdez and Crystal McRee were friendly and uplifting.
    • pro Dr. Arena and the wound care staff provided exceptional care.
    • pro Dr Qi was great, and Jamie the nurse in the preop area was kind and kept us calm.
    • pro Amirah D. is very personable and professional.
    • pro Tracy T., the patient representative, goes above and beyond to assist patients and families.

    Cons

    • pro The hospital is described as the worst, with nurses and staff who are rude and brush patients off.
    • pro The main front desk provides horrible customer service and shows poor communication about room checks.
    • pro There were HIPAA violations and abusive treatment, including holding patients longer than medically necessary and accusing them of cheating.
    • pro The 3 North unit is severely understaffed, creating unsafe conditions for patients and staff.
    • pro There is a lack of fairness and accountability in management, with favoritism and unequal standards that lower morale.
    • pro Poor staffing and lack of support undermine staff well-being and patient care.

    Review

    Clara Maass Medical Center clearly leaves a lasting impression on a wide range of visitors and patients, delivering moments of outstanding care alongside some hard-edged frustrations. Several accounts highlight extraordinary attentiveness and competence from nursing and clinical staff, especially in the post-surgery and procedural settings. One patient singled out Recovery Nurse Analiza for an exemplary level of care after surgery, noting how helpful and compassionate the nurse was during a vulnerable time. Across multiple stories, the nurses emerge as the most consistently praised group: kind, attentive, professional, and ready to answer questions and calm nerves before, during, and after procedures.

    The same sense of appreciation extends to a cadre of specific individuals who left a strong positive impression. In a first-time visit to Clara Maass, several caregivers - Alexis, Yvonne, Pini, and Geraldine - were described as very good, with the overall team responsible for getting the patient ready for a procedure earning five-star praise. Yvonne Spencer-Kelly, a BSN in Same Day Surgery, and the morning team were cited for exceptional care, with staff who were friendly, attentive, and ensured the patient felt at ease before the procedure. The hospital's care didn't stop with the bedside: nurses and doctors were noted as professional and communicative in post-operative updates, particularly in the experience of a husband who appreciated the timely updates during his wife's same-day surgery, with Dr. Qi specifically highlighted for excellence and Jamie in the preoperative area singled out for kindness and calm. In another thread, the labor and delivery experience was described as wonderful and supportive, with the gynecologist Dr. Meena Devalla providing care that left the patient pleased with the process and outcome.

    Beyond the bedside, the front-line staff at the hospital received ample praise for making visitors and patients feel acknowledged and welcome. A security guard, Elvis Valdez, and a front desk worker, Crystal McRee, were singled out as individuals whose presence could brighten a day; their attentiveness and warmth were memorable enough to warrant special mention. The security team as a whole received thanks for prompt and professional service, including a specific positive note about Officer Dave Nixon's quick jump-start of a vehicle in the parking deck. Front desk staff, including Amirah (Amirah D) and Crystal, were repeatedly described as kind and respectful, with Amirah repeatedly cited as personable and humorous while maintaining professionalism through the patient's stay. In the online chorus of appreciation, the Nuclear Medicine staff were described as amazing, reinforcing that several departments work harmoniously to create a smooth patient experience.

    Yet the reviews are not without their cautions. A handful of accounts describe notably poor experiences at the front desk, with a sense of frustration over perceived delays and dismissive attitudes. One reviewer characterized the main front desk as offering rude, blunt responses and failing to provide a helpful destination for questions about a loved one's care, even as time-sensitive emotions and concerns were high. This sentiment of frustration extended to a perception that patient-family needs - such as visiting a critically ill loved one - were not met with empathy or clear communication, which underscores a perceived disconnect between front-line customer service and patient expectations. Additionally, a strongly negative voice raised concerns about HIPAA violations and abusive treatment, including claims of being held longer than medically necessary and accusations of deception regarding one's illness and treatment. These voices call attention to real fears and the need for continual emphasis on patient rights, privacy, and respectful communication.

    Several reviews pull back the curtain on 3 North, Clara Maass's unit, painting a more nuanced picture. On one hand, this same unit was described as being very comfortable and staffed by professional, courteous, and informative personnel. The dietary team was praised for personalizing meals and ensuring satisfaction, with nurses Jade, John, Less, and Shane highlighted for their kindness. On the other hand, a strong urgent complaint labeled "Unsafe Conditions, Poor Management, and Lack of Fairness" depicts 3 North as severely understaffed, pushing both patients and staff to the limit. According to this perspective, management showed little concern for the treatment of nurses when faced with abusive patient behavior, and there was a concern about favoritism and a lack of accountability that undermined team morale and patient care. The reviewer explicitly called for a thorough investigation by upper management and state authorities to address staffing, leadership, and fairness, signaling a plea for systemic improvements alongside individual acts of compassion.

    Within the broader hospital ecosystem, the reviews repeatedly celebrate notable individuals who went above and beyond, even within challenging circumstances. Tracy T., described as a patient representative, is frequently praised for going above and beyond to assist patients and families, resolving confusion, arranging necessary steps, and providing reassurance on multiple floors of care. Stacy T., another patient relations figure, receives heartfelt thanks for the care and consistency she demonstrated in helping patients navigate complex experiences. Nurses and frontline staff like Allison and Joy (the RN Joyce) are also singled out for their warmth and dedication - Allison being lauded as an outstanding nurse, and Joy described as extremely friendly and supportive during a mom's surgery recovery. In this ecosystem of care, the patient experience appears deeply shaped by the enduring presence of such individuals who consistently show up for patients and families, offering empathy, clarity, and steady guidance.

    Across this spectrum of experiences, Clara Maass Medical Center emerges as a place of real strengths and notable challenges. The hospital's compassionate, capable nursing and clinical teams across post-surgery care, same-day procedures, labor and delivery, and specialty services are repeatedly described as professional, empathetic, and supportive. Security, front-desk staff, and patient-relations professionals are often singled out for their kindness and reliability, reflecting a culture of personal interaction that meaningfully improves patient well-being. At the same time, the more critical voices remind us that staffing levels, communication practices, and organizational fairness require ongoing attention. The calls for better staffing, clearer communication, and fair, transparent management practices reflect a desire to preserve the high standard of care while ensuring that every patient and family member is treated with consistent respect and privacy. In sum, the care at Clara Maass Medical Center appears to be a mosaic of extraordinary individual contributions and systemic pressures, with a clear path forward that centers on sustaining excellence while addressing staffing and administrative gaps.

    Features

    Housing

    • 20 resident community capacity 20 resident community capacity

    Types of Care

    • Skilled Nursing Facility Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.

    Amenities

    • Beauty salon Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
    • Cable or satellite TV 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 room 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 furnished 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.
    • Garden 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 services 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.
    • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
    • Move-in coordination 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 space 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.
    • Restaurant-style dining Restaurant-style diningRestaurant-style dining is important for seniors because it allows them to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in a social and upscale setting. This enhances their dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and fosters socialization with fellow residents, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
    • Small library Small librarySmall libraries are important for seniors as they provide access to a variety of reading materials, including books, newspapers, and magazines. This can help stimulate their minds, keep them engaged, and provide a sense of community through book clubs and other social activities. Additionally, reading has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental well-being in older adults.
    • Telephone 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 available 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.

    Transportation

    • Newark International (6 miles away) Newark International (6 miles away)
    • LaGuardia (16 miles away) LaGuardia (16 miles away)
    • John F Kennedy International (23 miles away) John F Kennedy International (23 miles away)

    Care Services

    • 24-hour call system 24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities.
    • 24-hour supervision 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 assistance 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 bathing 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 dressing 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 transfers 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.
    • Diabetes diet 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 service 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 management 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.
    • Mental wellness program Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
    • Special dietary restrictions 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.

    Dining

    • Diabetes diet 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 restrictions 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.

    Activities

    • Community-sponsored activities 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.
    • Resident-run activities Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers.
    • Scheduled daily activities 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.

    Description

    Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville, NJ is an assisted living community that offers a range of amenities and care services to support the needs of its residents. The community provides a comfortable living environment with fully furnished accommodations, including cable or satellite TV, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, and telephone services. Residents can enjoy delicious meals prepared by the on-site kitchenette in the dining room or opt for restaurant-style dining.

    Housekeeping services are provided to ensure a clean and organized living space, while move-in coordination is available to assist residents with the transition process. Outdoor spaces and gardens offer opportunities for relaxation and fresh air. For those who enjoy reading, there is a small library onsite.

    Care services at Clara Maass Medical Center include 24-hour supervision to ensure the safety of all residents. Assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and transfers is readily available. The staff also helps manage medication and provides specialized care for individuals with diabetes. A mental wellness program is offered to promote emotional well-being among residents.

    The community takes dietary restrictions into consideration and offers meals tailored to special dietary needs. Residents have access to resident-run activities as well as scheduled daily activities that provide opportunities for socialization and engagement.

    In terms of convenience, Clara Maass Medical Center boasts proximity to cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, and theaters. This makes it easy for residents and their families to access various amenities and services within the surrounding area.

    Overall, Clara Maass Medical Center provides a comfortable living environment with comprehensive care services and amenities that cater to the individual needs of its residents.

    Nearby Places of Interest

    Pharmacies

    • Walgreens (1.8 miles)
    • Walgreens (1.9 miles)
    • CVS Pharmacy (1.9 miles)
    • CVS Pharmacy (2.6 miles)
    • CVS Speciality (2.6 miles)
    • CVS Pharmacy (2.7 miles)
    • CVS Pharmacy (3 miles)

    Restaurants

    • McDonald's (1.8 miles)
    • McDonald's (2 miles)
    • Tops Diner (2.4 miles)
    • Egan & Sons (3 miles)
    • Faubourg (3.1 miles)
    • Taco Bell (3.3 miles)
    • Wendy's (3.6 miles)

    Transportation

    • East Orange Station (2.5 miles)
    • NJT - Brick Church Station (2.6 miles)
    • Harrison Path Station (3.3 miles)
    • NJT - Watchung Station (3.5 miles)
    • Newark Penn Station (3.5 miles)
    • NJT - Frank R. Lautenberg Secaucus Junction Station (5.5 miles)
    • Newark Liberty International Airport Station (5.6 miles)

    Parks

    • South Mountain Reservation (3 miles)
    • Eagle Rock Reservation (3.3 miles)
    • Orange Park Nj (3.6 miles)
    • Edgemont Memorial Park (3.7 miles)
    • Anderson Park (4.2 miles)
    • Degnan Memorial Park (4.8 miles)
    • Rutherford Memorial Park (5 miles)

    Physicians

    • Summit Medical Group (3 miles)
    • Care Station Medical Group (4.1 miles)
    • Summit Medical Group (4.4 miles)
    • Women First Health Center (4.8 miles)
    • Summit Medical Group (7.6 miles)

    Cafes

    • Paper Plane Coffee Co. (3 miles)
    • Starbucks (3.7 miles)
    • Starbucks (4.1 miles)
    • Panera Bread (4.3 miles)
    • True Salvage Cafe (5.6 miles)
    • The Bread Stand (6.2 miles)
    • Dunkin (6.7 miles)

    Theaters

    • AMC Clifton Commons 16 (3.5 miles)

    Places of Worship

    • Ahavas Israel (4.9 miles)
    • Bais Torah U'tefilah (5.3 miles)
    • Clifton Blue Mosque (6.3 miles)
    • Morrow Memorial United Methodist Church (6.8 miles)

    Hospitals

    • Saint Barnabas Medical Center (6.9 miles)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where is Clara Maass Medical Center?

    Nearby Communities

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