Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville, NJ

Information last verified:

One Clara Maass Drive, Belleville, NJ 07109

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

4.6 from 110 reviews
5 stars
95
4 stars
2
3 stars
2
2 stars
1
1 stars
10

Overall Review of Clara Maass Medical Center

Pros

  • pro The staff were so attentive that the patient felt uniquely special.
  • pro The Same Day Surgery Suite provided excellent care, with Joy and Lisa being professional, kind, and attentive to the patient's needs.
  • pro The anesthesiologists were very nice and explained everything clearly to the family.
  • pro Recovery Nurse Analiza did an exemplary job caring for the loved one post-surgery.
  • pro The nurses and staff were very friendly, kind, and professional.
  • pro Juliet was kind, skilled, knowledgeable, and professional, putting the patient at ease.
  • pro Dr. Futterman is described as one of the best doctors, with the overnight nurse and tech crew also praised.
  • pro Joyce Iannuzzi (Joy) is praised for exceptional service, calming nerves, and answering questions with a smile.
  • pro Crystal M. and Crystal at the front desk are described as welcoming, uplifting, and helpful.
  • pro Tracy T., the patient representative, went above and beyond to ensure the patient was okay and well cared for.
  • pro The security team, including Officer Nixon, was professional, attentive, and ensured safety.
  • pro The 3 North nursing team showed dedication, compassion, and teamwork, making patients feel comfortable and respected.

Cons

  • pro Mr. Joseph Wojtecki ignored the complaint, did not understand the point of view, and did nothing.
  • pro Raquel, RN on 6South, was extremely rude, unprofessional, and intimidating, making the patient feel worse after surgery.
  • pro The 3 North unit is severely understaffed, creating unsafe conditions for patients and staff.
  • pro Management shows little to no concern for how nurses are treated, offering no meaningful action or support.
  • pro The hospital placed an adult patient in the pediatric unit and showed a lack of concern for proper care.
  • pro There were HIPAA violations and abusive treatment, with calls for licenses to be revoked.
  • pro The x-ray tech repeatedly misgendered the patient, indicating poor bedside manner.
  • pro The emergency department staff were nonchalant and failed to treat emergencies with urgency.

Review

Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville, NJ is best suited for families facing surgical decisions or short inpatient stays who prize intensely attentive bedside care and a strong advocate network. The center shines in its ambulatory and same-day surgery pathways, where preop and postop teams, anesthesiologists, and nurses are repeatedly hailed for clear explanations, steady reassurance, and organized coordination. For seniors and their families who want a hospital experience driven by personalized attention, rapid communication, and accessible support through patient representatives, Clara Maass stands out. However, those seeking uniform, consistently flawless care across every department, especially in high-stress emergency rooms and on certain inpatient floors, should explicitly consider alternatives.

On balance, the hospital earns high marks for the human side of care. Reviewers consistently laud attentive nurses, organized perioperative teams, and a patient-representation network that keeps families informed and emotionally supported. Particular staff members emerge as anchors: Joy Iannuzzi in preop and postop phases, Yvonne Spencer-Kelly for ambulatory care, and Tracy Thompson for patient navigation and discharge coordination are repeatedly named as exceptionally competent and compassionate. Across the hospital, security personnel and front-desk teams receive frequent praise for making visitors feel safe and welcomed, and the capacity to tailor dietary plans and provide translation services adds meaningful depth to patient experience, particularly for seniors managing diabetes or language barriers. In short, the surgical and day-surgery experiences often feel well-oiled, with consistent demonstrations of professionalism and warmth.

Yet the record also cautions about uneven experiences. Several accounts describe the emergency department as overextended at times, with complaints about delays, perceived indifference, or gaps in follow-through. The 3 North inpatient unit surfaces repeatedly as the site where staffing strain translates into visible stress and occasional concerns about fairness, coordination, and safety. A subset of reviewers recount encounters with individual providers who fell short in listening or responsiveness, underscoring that patient experience can vary by floor and by week. The presence of flies in a room and other sporadic nonclinical annoyances punctuate the sense that, while many teams excel, the hospital’s day-to-day reliability isn’t equally strong in every corner. Taken together, these threads show a hospital capable of extraordinary care, but one where the guest experience can feel inconsistent under pressure.

The key pros do not merely soften the cons; they redefine the balance in practical terms for decision-making. For families prioritizing elective surgery or rapid postoperative recovery, Clara Maass delivers a credible, high-trust pathway. The preoperative briefings, the warmth of recovery nurses, and the steady updates from attentive clinicians build confidence and reduce anxiety at a vulnerable moment. The robust patient-representation cadre, especially Tracy T and Joy, acts as a crucial bridge between clinical teams and families, clarifying expectations, coordinating tests, and smoothing discharge plans. The security and front-desk ecosystem, praised for reliability and courtesy, adds an essential layer of reassurance for visitors who are navigating unfamiliar hospital routines with aging relatives. When the care plan hinges on a compassionate, well-coordinated surgical journey, the strengths here often eclipse the occasional departmental gaps.

For families weighing alternatives, a few practical truths emerge. If the priority is a consistently calm, well-staffed ER and inpatient floors with uniform standards, it makes sense to benchmark Clara Maass against other regional hospitals within the RWJBarnabas network or against facilities like Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center or nearby New Brunswick options. These comparisons can help determine whether the variability reported on 3 North and in the ER reflects a transient staffing cycle or a broader pattern. For seniors who require multi-faceted, ongoing inpatient management rather than rapid turnover, exploring hospitals with more uniform across-the-board staffing may be prudent. Yet for relatives who value a hospital where advocacy and bedside kindness shape the day-to-day experience, Clara Maass remains a strong contender, especially for perioperative care.

In the end, the decision rests on the care pathway most valued. For elective surgery, same-day procedures, or short-term postoperative recovery, Clara Maass offers a compelling combination of skilled clinicians, responsive nursing teams, and a robust support ecosystem staffed by patient representatives and attentive security personnel. The strength of the ambulatory and pre/postoperative experience, coupled with personalized meals, translation support, and a cadre of staff praised for consistency and heart, gives this hospital a practical competitive edge. Conversely, for families prioritizing uniform inpatient reliability, rapid ER throughput without episodic friction, or steady management oversight across all floors, it is wise to compare with alternatives that may deliver a more consistently balanced credential across departments. The fit hinges on whether the emphasis is on surgical excellence and patient advocacy, or on inpatient stability and uniform departmental performance over the long haul.

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

  • Parkside Manor

    Parkside Manor

    Newark, NJ

    3.5 from 4 reviews
     

    pro Prime Newark location with easy access to cafes, parks, pharmacies, restaurants, transit, worship, and theater.

  • Job Haines Home For Aged People/Hearthside Commons

    Job Haines Home For Aged People/Hearthside Commons

    Bloomfield, NJ

    4.3 from 53 reviews
     

    pro Comprehensive care options (assisted living, respite, skilled nursing) with extensive on-site amenities and 24/7 supervision.

  • The Job Haines Home

    The Job Haines Home

    Bloomfield, NJ

    4.4 from 63 reviews
    $3,184 to $4,033 / month

    pro Caring, professional staff with clean, private rooms and engaging activities.

  • Ballantyne House

    Ballantyne House

    Newark, NJ

    3 from 7 reviews
     

    pro Upscale assisted living with personalized care in a vibrant Newark setting.

  • Hazelcrest Manor Nursing Home

    Hazelcrest Manor Nursing Home

    Bloomfield, NJ

    5 from 4 reviews
     

    pro Convenient location with ample nearby services (dining, parks, pharmacies, physicians, transportation, worship, theater).

  • Divine Aid Services LLC

    Divine Aid Services LLC

    Bloomfield, NJ

     
     

    pro Specialized dining options to accommodate gluten-free, low-sodium, sugar-free, organic, and vegan diets, with strong access to parks, cafes, pharmacies, and restaurants nearby.

  • Forest Hill Healthcare Center

    Forest Hill Healthcare Center

    Newark, NJ

    4.4 from 110 reviews
     

    pro Extensive on-site amenities and 24/7 care.

  • Coppergate House

    Coppergate House

    East Orange, NJ

    4.2 from 15 reviews
    $3,429 to $4,457 / month

    pro Competitive pricing with convenient nearby amenities

  • Newark Extended Care Facility

    Newark Extended Care Facility

    Newark, NJ

    3 from 127 reviews
     

    pro Dedicated, compassionate staff across key care teams (6th floor, rehab, nursing).

Related Resources

  • living will definitionA Detailed Exploration of Living Wills and Advance Directives

    The article examines living wills and advance directives, highlighting their significance in expressing healthcare preferences for those unable to communicate due to illness or incapacity. It discusses their historical development, legal components, limitations, practical drafting advice, and the importance of clear communication among families and healthcare professionals regarding end-of-life decisions.

  • does medicare cover hospiceComprehensive Guide to Medicare Coverage for Hospice Care

    Hospice care focuses on providing comfort and support for individuals nearing the end of life, with Medicare Part A covering services like nursing care and counseling for patients with a terminal illness and a life expectancy of six months or less. While most hospice services are low-cost for eligible patients, families should be aware that certain expenses, such as room and board, may not be covered.

  • caregiver burnoutCaring for Those Who Care: Recognizing, Understanding, and Overcoming Caregiver Burnout

    Caregiver burnout is a common issue resulting from the intense physical, emotional, and mental demands of caregiving, leading to symptoms like fatigue and social withdrawal. To prevent burnout, caregivers should recognize early warning signs and implement self-care strategies, seek support, and prioritize their own well-being alongside that of those they care for.