Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville, NJ

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

Overall Review of Clara Maass Medical Center

Pros

  • pro Analiza provided exemplary post-surgery care.
  • pro The staff were very kind and attentive.
  • pro Yvonne Spencer-Kelly and the morning team provided exceptional care.
  • pro Elvis Valdez and Crystal McRee brighten the day with their presence.
  • pro Tracey Thompson, the patient representative, went above and beyond to assist patients.
  • pro Joyce Iannuzzi delivered exceptional service with a genuine smile and calming presence.
  • pro Xavier and Jill were exceptional nursing assistants who contributed to comfort and care.
  • pro The 3 North nursing team demonstrated teamwork, professionalism, and compassion.
  • pro Gerard from Security was professional, attentive, and made visitors feel safe.

Cons

  • pro The reviewer calls the hospital the worst and says nurses and staff are rude and brush patients off, including curt responses when asking about a family member.
  • pro The reviewer describes horrible customer service at the main front desk, noting conflicting demands to "check the room" and frustration with how visitors are treated.
  • pro A patient accuses the facility of HIPAA violations and abusive treatment, including being held longer than medically necessary and being accused of not being ill.
  • pro Raquel RN on 6South is described as extremely rude, unprofessional, and intimidating, leaving the patient feeling worse after surgery.
  • pro The 3 North unit is portrayed as severely understaffed, creating unsafe conditions for both patients and staff, with little leadership support.
  • pro A commenter claims favoritism and a toxic work environment due to unequal treatment and inconsistent consequences for staff.
  • pro A note mentions flies in a patient room, detracting from the overall care experience.
  • pro One review implies biased care, describing nurses treating people of color as if they were seeking narcotics.

Review

Clara Maass Medical Center is best suited for seniors who need acute hospital care, post-surgical recovery, or ambulatory services with strong care coordination. The community shines when a loved one requires professional nursing attention, clear communication with family, and a reliable process for procedures, recovery, and discharge. It is a pragmatic choice for families prioritizing skilled clinicians, compassionate bedside care, and a hospital environment designed to support quick pivots from surgery to recovery. For those seeking long-term daily living in a single setting, however, Clara Maass is not a substitute for a dedicated assisted living community.

The most compelling advantages are consistently visible in the clinical and caregiving teams. Recovery nurses are repeatedly described as exemplary, with post-surgery care that puts patient comfort and safety first. Across the board, the nursing and physician staff are praised for professionalism, responsiveness, and attentiveness. Patient representatives emerge as strategic anchors - Tracey T. and Joy (Joyce) Iannuzzi are repeatedly named for their ability to calm fears, coordinate needs, and keep families informed. The care culture extends from ambulatory and pre-op areas to inpatient floors, where nurses, aides, and support staff demonstrate teamwork, empathy, and a willingness to go the extra mile. Cleanliness, courtesy at the front desk, and helpful security personnel also surface as meaningful positives that reduce anxiety for families navigating a hospital stay.

Operational strengths underpin the positive clinical feedback. Ambulatory and same-day surgery experiences are described as smooth and reassuring, with nurses and anesthesiologists communicating clearly and keeping patients at ease. The pre-op environment often earns high marks for preparation and bedside support, and the post-op team is frequently cited for rapid response to questions and effective pain management. Translators and dietary teams receive praise for making care accessible and personalized, while the security and environmental services teams are highlighted for their professionalism and practical help, such as arranging transportation or guiding visitors through the facility. Across many reviews, the hospital seems to implement a cohesive care continuum that helps families feel heard and reassured.

Yet there are important caveats to weigh. A subset of reviews reports significant staffing stress on the 3 North unit, describing unsafe conditions and perceived leadership gaps. Concerns about fairness and accountability in management also appear, with complaints about inconsistent standards and a sense that some staff are held to different expectations. A few family members recount rude or dismissive front-desk interactions or discharge delays that complicate the patient experience. Occasionally, patient interactions with specific individuals border on negative, including strong critiques of mixups or miscommunications. These elements don't define Clara Maass, but they do signal that staffing levels, leadership responsiveness, and front-line communication can vary by unit and shift.

The key question for decision-making is whether the hospital's strengths align with the family's priorities for care. For families focused on postoperative recovery, rapid access to skilled clinicians, transparent updates, and a culture of compassionate bedside support, Clara Maass delivers compelling value that often offsets the occasional operational friction. The patient advocate ecosystem - embodied by Tracy T. and Joy - provides tangible leverage for navigating care needs, coordinating with surgeons, and reducing uncertainty during a stressful period. Security, housekeeping, and transport staff also contribute to a sense of safety and smooth navigation through the hospital, which matters greatly for elderly patients or those with mobility challenges.

For seniors considering alternatives, the decisive factor is daily living stability and long-term consistency. Hospitals are excellent for episodic care, but not designed for sustained, around-the-clock assisted living or memory care in a home-like setting. If ongoing daily support, predictable staffing, and a residence where care plans are continuously managed by a single care team are the goal, families should evaluate dedicated assisted living communities or skilled nursing facilities that emphasize 24/7 on-site caregiving, familiar routines, and a steadier floor-team dynamic. Before choosing, request a sit-down with unit leadership to discuss staffing ratios, plan for discharge and transitions, and arrange informal meetings with floor nurses and patient representatives to gauge whether the culture on the floor matches expectations. In short, Clara Maass stands out for acute care excellence and compassionate advocacy, but for long-term living arrangements, a targeted alternative with stable daily support may prove the more reliable fit.

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?

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