Veterans home chief stepping down

Nevada State Veterans Home administrator Mark McBride will be leaving his position after a little more than a year of service, according to a news release.

McBride, whose resignation is effective Nov. 1, took over the helm Sept. 15, 2014.

"Mark has spent this past year with NDVS and the home, and has served with professionalism and efficiency," deputy director of wellness for the department Wendy Simons said in a statement. " He has demonstrated passion and sincerity in his dedication to his role and responsibilities as Administrator."

McBride took over in the midst of a federal investigation by the Nevada attorney general's office after a former resident of the veterans home was found dead and the home was accused of neglect.

The veteran's nursing home was cited by federal and state officials for multiple infractions in 2013.

Under McBride's regime, a new policy on covering medication shortages and unavailable medication was written, according to a plan of correction made in 2014. Under these changes, all medications were to be ensured they weren't missed.

The plan of correction also said clinical staff were instructed on keeping up-to-date, accurate medicine orders and other documents upon being admitted to the home.

The administrator's position requires oversight of 180 residents, supervision of a large and diverse staff, oversight of many community partners and volunteers and knowledge of regulatory expectations and inspections.

McBride is leaving for a job in the private sector, although further details were not available.

Linda Gelinger will take over as interim administrator Nov. 2 and brings extensive experience to the role, according to the release.

"We have extreme confidence in her commitment to quality and service," Simons said. "She has a very warm, outgoing personality that will be enjoyed by many."

Gelinger is on the board of examiners for long-term care administrators and has a track record of operations in nursing and assisted-living facilities.

McBride had this to say about his decision to leave the position: "While I have enjoyed leading the Nevada State Veterans Home this past year, it was my decision to resign my appointed position and return to the private sector. I had submitted a 30-day notice and my last day leading the home will be on Nov. 1."

— Contact reporter Randy Faehnrich at rfaehnrich@bouldercityreview.com or at 702-586-9401. Follow him on Twitter @RandyFaehnrich