Guthrie Cortland Medical Center in Cortland, NY

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Guthrie Cortland Medical Center in Cortland, NY

134 Homer Avenue, Cortland, NY 13045

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

3.3 from 104 reviews
5 stars
49
4 stars
10
3 stars
4
2 stars
4
1 stars
37

Skilled Nursing Facility

Overall Review of Guthrie Cortland Medical Center

Pros

  • pro The patient was treated by highly professional and friendly staff who listened and provided helpful at-home exercises.
  • pro The patient received top-notch care from every staff member and practitioner and would highly recommend the facility.
  • pro The ER nurses were amazing and provided compassionate care.
  • pro Toby the physical therapist was professional and friendly, explaining everything clearly.
  • pro The communication with a deaf patient was excellent, making them feel comfortable.
  • pro The maternity nurses were kind, knowledgeable, and attentive, making the stay positive.
  • pro Guthrie Cortland was described as surprising, faster, kinder, and more professional than elsewhere.
  • pro Check-in was quick and the patient was seen in a timely manner.

Cons

  • pro They describe the staff as very rude and unprofessional, with little sympathy for patients (especially in the front desk).
  • pro They call the ER/discharge process unsafe, including claims of illegal or forced discharges that jeopardize patient safety.
  • pro They accuse the hospital of being disorganized and slow, with poor communication and long wait times.
  • pro They state pain management was delayed or denied, leaving them in severe discomfort for hours.
  • pro They criticize doctors and nurses for condescending, indifferent, or dismissive bedside manner.
  • pro They complain of privacy violations and unprofessional conduct, such as lack of privacy in the ER and staff joking or ignoring patients.
  • pro They mention billing and administrative issues, claiming unresolved charges and poor customer service.
  • pro They label the hospital "an absolute joke" and say it should be shut down.
  • pro They report serious safety concerns, including misdiagnoses, inappropriate treatments, and potential medical errors.

Review

Guthrie Cortland Medical Center is best suited for families and patients who value hands-on, compassionate nursing care in a smaller-town hospital setting, with particular strength shown in maternity and general inpatient care when staff are aligned and workloads are manageable. When the ER and inpatient teams are fully staffed, patients consistently report attentive nurses, clear explanations, and responsive bedside support. For new or expectant parents, the Cortland campus can feel like a reassuring local option where nurses and labor-and-delivery staff are repeatedly praised for kindness, openness, and practical support through the stay. This community rewards decisions that prioritize personal attention and hands-on care over speed, efficiency, or broad-specialty access.

Those who may want to consider alternatives include families that depend on consistently rapid ER throughput, predictable discharge timing, or highly standardized pain management and diagnostics. The reviews show frequent, lengthy waits, confusing check-ins, and episodic lapses in communication that can undermine confidence in urgent situations. For patients requiring advanced pain control, nerve blocks, or highly specialized procedures, larger regional centers with steadier staffing and more extensive subspecialty availability may be a safer bet. Billing transparency and privacy concerns also surface in several accounts, suggesting that those who cannot tolerate fragmented billing processes or privacy anxieties should weigh other options.

The main pros - compassionate nursing, attentive maternity care, and some high-functioning clinical teams - do offer meaningful offset to the principal cons, but only intermittently. Nursing teams across ER, ICU, and maternity units are consistently praised for empathy, responsiveness, and good bedside manner when conditions permit. Specific physicians and therapists receive strong notes for communication and competence, and physical therapy staff are repeatedly described as professional and helpful. When the care team is fully resourced, the hospital delivers the reliable, person-centered care that families seek. However, those strengths struggle to compensate for the times when wait times balloon, when staff appear overwhelmed, or when discharge planning and information-sharing fall through the cracks.

Families evaluating this campus should enter with a plan for concrete questions and a readiness to observe how the workflow operates during peak hours. Ask for the nurse manager or floor lead to gauge current staffing levels, and request a clear explanation of expected wait times, especially in the ER. Verify who is on duty in departments most relevant to the visit and ask to be connected with someone who can articulate a discharge plan, follow-up appointments, and medication reconciliations. It is prudent to confirm privacy protections and to inquire how the team handles pain management, alternative therapies, and escalation when needs are not being met. If an in-depth, reliable discharge pathway is non-negotiable, exploring nearby alternatives may be wise.

Experience across reviews is notably mixed, underscoring real swings in performance. Positive reports highlight urgent responsiveness during childbirth, attentive ICU and maternity care, and several standout clinicians who leave patients feeling well cared for. Yet repeatedly, the ER is described as disorganized, with long waits, crowded hallways, and inconsistent communication from doctors and nurses. Complaints about rude or disengaged staff, billing friction, and privacy lapses crop up with troubling frequency, reinforcing the reality that outcomes at Guthrie Cortland hinge considerably on which shift, which unit, and which clinicians are present. This is a hospital that can feel like two different places, depending on the moment.

For families deciding where to seek care, Guthrie Cortland offers genuine strengths in nursing and maternity-focused services, with several staff members earning high marks for expertise and warmth. The caveat is clear: when demand spikes or when teams are under strain, experiences can deteriorate quickly, leaving patients feeling overlooked or uncertain about next steps. The prudent path is to treat this campus as a solid local option for routine and maternity care, but to have a backup plan for emergencies, pain management, and discharge certainty. In practice, that means prioritizing visits during known staffing peaks, seeking direct conversations with floor leadership, and comparing this campus against larger regional centers for any visit that carries high stakes or complexity.

Features

Housing

  • 80 resident community capacity 80 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

  • Air-conditioning Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
  • 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.
  • Computer center Computer centerA computer center is essential for seniors as it provides access to technology, communication tools, and resources that can enhance their daily lives. It allows them to stay connected with loved ones, engage in online activities, and learn new skills, ultimately promoting socialization and mental stimulation.
  • 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.
  • Fitness room Fitness roomHaving a fitness room in a senior living community is essential for seniors to stay active, maintain their physical health, and improve their overall well-being. Regular exercise can help prevent falls, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote mental sharpness. It also provides social opportunities for residents to connect with others and enjoy a sense of community.
  • 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.
  • Gaming room Gaming roomGaming rooms are important for seniors as they provide a fun and engaging environment for socializing, cognitive stimulation, and physical activity. Games can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and overall mental well-being while fostering friendships and reducing feelings of isolation.
  • 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.
  • Private bathrooms Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.
  • 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.
  • Wellness center Wellness centerWellness centers are important for seniors because they offer a variety of programs and services that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These centers provide opportunities for exercise, socialization, education, and relaxation, helping seniors maintain their overall health and quality of life.
  • 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

  • Tompkins Cty (16 miles away) Tompkins Cty (16 miles away)
  • Community operated transportation Community operated transportationCommunity operated transportation is crucial for seniors as it provides them with the means to access essential services, social activities, and medical appointments. It allows seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life by ensuring they can participate in activities outside of their homes. Additionally, community-operated transportation services offer a safe and reliable way for seniors to travel without having to rely on family or friends for assistance.
  • Transportation arrangement Transportation arrangementTransportation arrangements are crucial for seniors as they may face challenges with driving, mobility, or access to public transportation. Having reliable transportation services ensures that seniors can easily attend appointments, social activities, and maintain their independence and quality of life.
  • Transportation arrangement (non-medical) Transportation arrangement (non-medical)Transportation arrangements are essential for seniors as they provide access to essential services, activities, and social interactions outside the home. This service helps maintain independence, mobility, and overall well-being for seniors who may have limited transportation options.
  • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support, promoting their health and well-being. It allows them to receive timely treatment, monitor existing conditions, and address any new health concerns efficiently. Additionally, transportation services can help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life by enabling them to stay connected with their healthcare providers.

Care Services

  • 12-16 hour nursing 12-16 hour nursing12-16 hour nursing care is crucial for seniors in order to ensure around-the-clock monitoring, timely medication administration, and prompt response to any health concerns or emergencies. This level of care helps to promote the overall well-being and safety of seniors living in senior living communities.
  • 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.
  • Concierge services Concierge servicesConcierge services are essential for seniors as they provide assistance with daily tasks and errands, enhance their quality of life by offering convenience and personalized care, and promote a sense of safety and security.
  • Fitness programs Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
  • Planned day trips Planned day tripsPlanned day trips are important for seniors because they offer opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. They provide a change of scenery and help seniors stay engaged and connected to their community, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
  • 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

Guthrie Cortland Medical Center in Cortland, NY is an exceptional assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services to ensure the comfort and well-being of its residents. The community boasts various amenities, including a beauty salon, cable or satellite TV, a computer center, and a fully furnished living space. Residents can also enjoy the convenience of on-site dining with restaurant-style meals served in a spacious dining room.

For recreational activities, Guthrie Cortland Medical Center provides numerous options such as a gaming room, small library, and outdoor spaces for residents to relax and engage in leisurely pursuits. Additionally, the community offers transportation arrangement services for both non-medical purposes as well as for doctor's appointments.

In terms of care services, residents benefit from 24-hour call system and supervision to ensure their safety and well-being at all times. Trained staff are available to assist with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers whenever needed. Medication management services are also offered for the convenience of residents. Additionally, individuals with special dietary restrictions or diabetes diet requirements will have their needs catered to.

Residents at Guthrie Cortland Medical Center have access to various activities tailored to their interests and preferences. These include fitness programs designed to promote physical wellness, planned day trips for excursions and exploration outside the community, resident-run activities for social engagement, as well as scheduled daily activities organized by the staff.

The location of Guthrie Cortland Medical Center is highly desirable with several cafes, parks, pharmacies, restaurants, places of worship nearby, a testament to the vibrant community surrounding it. Furthermore, there are theaters and hospitals within close proximity offering convenient access to entertainment options and medical facilities if necessary.

Overall, Guthrie Cortland Medical Center provides a warm and comfortable environment where residents can enjoy an enriching lifestyle along with professional assistance when needed.

Nearby Places of Interest

Hospitals

  • Cortland Memorial Hospital (0 miles)
  • Cortland Regional Maternity (0 miles)
  • Cortland Surgical Center (1.2 miles)

Physicians

  • Obstetric & Gynecologic Associates of Cortland MD PC (0 miles)
  • Cortland Orthopedics (0.1 miles)
  • Cortland Internist Associates (0.2 miles)
  • Cortland Oral Surgery Center (0.3 miles)
  • Cayuga Renaissance GYN (0.3 miles)
  • Cortland Health Center (0.6 miles)
  • Patricia Digiovanna Np (0.6 miles)

Restaurants

  • Hyde Diner (0.1 miles)
  • Doug's Fish Fry (0.6 miles)
  • Hollywood Restaurant (0.6 miles)
  • Central City Bar & Grill (0.7 miles)
  • Hairy Tony's (0.8 miles)
  • Cortland Diner (0.9 miles)
  • Frosted (0.9 miles)

Parks

  • Suggett Park (0.2 miles)
  • Cortland Waterworks (0.9 miles)
  • Dexter Park (1.2 miles)
  • Yaman Park (1.4 miles)
  • Durkee Memorial Park (2.8 miles)
  • Homer Green (2.9 miles)
  • Montgomery Park (9.8 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Free Methodist Church (0.4 miles)
  • Grace Christian Fellowship (0.5 miles)
  • Christian & Missionary Alliance Church (0.5 miles)
  • Church Bible Baptist (0.6 miles)
  • Bible Baptist Church (0.6 miles)
  • Newman Hall Catholic Center (0.9 miles)
  • O'Heron Newman Catholic Chapel (0.9 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Kinney Drugs (0.6 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (0.9 miles)
  • Medicine Shoppe (1 miles)
  • Rite Aid (1.1 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.1 miles)
  • Top's Markets (1.2 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.3 miles)

Cafes

  • Coffee Cookies & Creamers (0.7 miles)
  • Bru 64 (0.8 miles)
  • Coffee Mania (0.9 miles)
  • Starbucks (1 miles)
  • Coffee Mania (1.3 miles)
  • Origins (2.5 miles)
  • Brewer’s Cafe and Taproom (14.5 miles)

Transportation

  • Autorental America (1.1 miles)
  • Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport (ITH) (16.2 miles)

Theaters

  • Plaza 6 Cinemas (1.9 miles)

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