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Nursing HomeMedicaid Investigative

The Highlands Guest Care Center

Below-average Medicare ratings — review the inspection history and ask the administrator about recent corrections before visiting.

9009 Forest Ln, Lake Highlands · Dallas, TX 75243116 bedsLicensed & Active
1/5
Medicare
Inspection
Quality
Staffing
Google rating
3.3/5

based on 64 Google reviews

5
4
3
2
1
The Highlands Guest Care Center Nursing Home in Dallas, TX — Street View
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8/ 10
critical Risk

Quality Concerns Identified

Medicare inspection and quality data reveal areas that families should carefully evaluate before choosing this facility.

  • Special Focus Facility (under heightened CMS scrutiny)
  • Abuse citation on record
  • Low overall rating (1/5 stars)
  • Low staffing rating (1/5 stars)

Bottom 25% in Texas · Below recommended RN staffing · $53,825 in fines · Special Focus Facility (CMS) · Abuse citation

Source: Medicare data

What this means for your family

While recent tours suggest a beautifully renovated facility with good rehab capabilities, you must proceed with extreme caution. There is a persistent and documented history of serious concerns regarding medication errors, staff neglect, and poor communication with families that has not been resolved in recent reviews.

Google Reviews

Google Reviews

64 reviews on Google
Families considering this facility will find a stark divide between recent positive tours and long-standing, severe allegations of neglect. While some recent visitors praise the renovated rooms and professional rehab therapy, multiple reviewers report critical issues including medication errors, physical/emotional abuse, and significant understaffing.

Quality Themes

Tap a score for details
Food3.0Staff2.0Clean3.0ActivitiesN/AMeds1.0MemoryN/AComms2.0ValueN/A

Strengths

  • Recently renovated and clean facilities
  • Professional rehabilitation therapy gym
  • Knowledgeable staff during facility tours
  • Friendly and welcoming atmosphere for some residents

Concerns

  • Severe understaffing leading to neglect (mentioned by 4 reviewers)
  • Unprofessional or rude communication from administration and front desk (mentioned by 5 reviewers)
  • Allegations of physical and emotional abuse (mentioned by 2 reviewers)
  • Issues with hygiene and unpleasant odors (urine) (mentioned by 3 reviewers)
  • Inadequate medication management (mentioned by 2 reviewers)

Rating Trends

Tap a year to see what changed

234'12(1)'16(1)'18(3)'20(2)'22(7)'24(9)'26(2)

Distribution · 59 analyzed

5
33
4
2
3
1
2
1
1
22

How They Respond to Reviews

47%response rate
Generic

The owner uses highly repetitive, templated responses for negative reviews, primarily directing users to contact the Administrator via a specific phone number. Positive reviews receive slightly more personalized, though still brief, acknowledgments.

Questions for Your Tour

  • 1I noticed the facility has been recently renovated; how do you ensure the cleanliness and freshness of the resident rooms and common areas are maintained daily?
  • 2With the professional rehab gym on site, how do you coordinate physical therapy schedules to ensure residents are getting consistent care?
  • 3How does the nursing team manage medication administration and double-check accuracy, especially during shift changes?
  • 4What is the process for communicating important medical updates or changes in condition to family members to ensure we are always in the loop?
  • 5Could you tell me more about the daily dining experience and how you ensure meal quality and variety for the residents?
  • 6What kind of social activities or group outings are available to help residents stay engaged and connected with one another?

Personalized based on this facility's data


Key Review Excerpts

I was able to see their therapy gym, dining services, and was able to inspect a open room. The staff were knowledge and made me feel like I was having an educated decision about my dad moving in or not for his short term rehabilitation.

Prospective resident's family · 2025★★★★★

If you need 24/7 assistance on short notice, this is a place where staff will assist you quickly..

Rehab patient · 2025★★★★

The building on the outside does look a little dilapidated and it didn't really give the impression of improvement. My family member was there only about 24 hours but gave three descriptions. She wasn't given pain medicine for 18 hours...

Short-term resident's family · 2022☆☆☆☆
Source: 64 Google reviews

Staffing

Staffing Hours

per resident/day · Medicare 2026
RN Hours
0.46hrs
62%
Registered nurses for medical care
Total Nursing
3.33hrs
81%
All nurses + aides combined

Both RN and total nursing hours are below national benchmarks. This can mean less clinical attention per resident, so ask about their staffing plan.

Quality Measures

Quality Measures

Resident outcomes compared with national, state, and local averages · 17 measures

Medicare Rating
3/ 5
Better Than Avg

15

measures

Worse Than Avg

1

measures

Mixed Results

1

measures

Long-Stay Residents
😔

Residents with depression symptoms

↓ Lower is better
This Facility0.7%
Better than Avg
Here
0.7%
US
12.1%
TX
2.5%
Dallas
2.1%

Highly dependent on how each facility screens and codes depressive symptoms, so it varies widely between facilities.

🛏️

Residents needing more daily help over time

↓ Lower is better
This Facility10.0%
Better than Avg
Here
10.0%
US
14.4%
TX
16.1%
Dallas
18.0%
🚿

Residents whose bladder or bowel control got worse

↓ Lower is better
This Facility11.9%
Better than Avg
Here
11.9%
US
19.4%
TX
14.2%
Dallas
16.2%
🚶

Residents whose walking got worse

↓ Lower is better
This Facility9.6%
Better than Avg
Here
9.6%
US
15.3%
TX
14.9%
Dallas
17.1%
💉

Residents vaccinated for pneumonia

↑ Higher is better
This Facility100.0%
Better than Avg
Here
100.0%
US
93.4%
TX
96.9%
Dallas
95.6%
💊

Residents on antipsychotic medication

↓ Lower is better
This Facility9.2%
Better than Avg
Here
9.2%
US
15.4%
TX
9.4%
Dallas
10.6%
Short-Stay Residents (Rehab / Post-Acute)
💉

Short-stay residents vaccinated for the flu

↑ Higher is better
This Facility100.0%
Better than Avg
Here
100.0%
US
79.7%
TX
88.0%
Dallas
78.7%
💉

Short-stay residents vaccinated for pneumonia

↑ Higher is better
This Facility100.0%
Better than Avg
Here
100.0%
US
81.8%
TX
89.2%
Dallas
86.4%
💊

Short-stay residents newly given antipsychotics

↓ Lower is better
This Facility1.2%
Better than Avg
Here
1.2%
US
1.6%
TX
1.5%
Dallas
1.3%
Source: Medicare quality measures

US average from Medicare published data

Inspection History

Medicare Inspection History

3-year lookback · Medicare 2026

2deficiencies
1penalties
Well below state avg (9.1)
20 complaint-triggered
$53,825 in fines

Families have filed multiple complaints triggering 15 deficiencies, with concerning patterns in resident protection from abuse and neglect, safety hazards, and fire safety systems. Issues span resident rights violations, care planning problems, infection control failures, and building safety defects including fire alarms, sprinklers, and emergency preparedness. While all deficiencies show correction dates, the recurring complaints and repeated fire safety violations across multiple surveys suggest ongoing operational challenges families should carefully evaluate.

Dec 30, 2025Routine
19
0004Potential for harm · WidespreadCorrected

Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies

Develop and maintain an Emergency Preparedness Program (EP).

0006Potential for harm · WidespreadCorrected

Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies

Conduct risk assessment and an All-Hazards approach.

0009Potential for harm · WidespreadCorrected

Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies

Include a process for Emergency Preparedness collaboration.

0024Potential for harm · WidespreadCorrected

Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies

Establish policies and procedures for volunteers.

0026Potential for harm · WidespreadCorrected

Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies

Establish roles under a Waiver declared by secretary.

0030Potential for harm · WidespreadCorrected

Emergency Preparedness Deficiencies

List the names and contact information of those in the facility.

0293Potential for harm · WidespreadCorrected

Egress Deficiencies

Have properly located and lighted "Exit" signs.

0341Potential for harm · WidespreadCorrected

Smoke Deficiencies

Install a fire alarm system that can be heard throughout the facility.

0345Potential for harm · WidespreadCorrected

Smoke Deficiencies

Have approved installation, maintenance and testing program for fire alarm systems.

0351Potential for harm · WidespreadCorrected

Smoke Deficiencies

Install an approved automatic sprinkler system.

0355Potential for harm · WidespreadCorrected

Smoke Deficiencies

Properly select, install, inspect, or maintain portable fire extinguishes.

0511Potential for harm · WidespreadCorrected

Services Deficiencies

Have properly installed electrical wiring and gas equipment.

0915Potential for harm · WidespreadCorrected

Gas, Vacuum, and Electrical Systems Deficiencies

Have proper power supply for life support equipment.

0918Potential for harm · WidespreadCorrected

Gas, Vacuum, and Electrical Systems Deficiencies

Have generator or other power source capable of supplying service within 10 seconds.

0321Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Smoke Deficiencies

Ensure that special areas are constructed so that walls can resist fire for one hour or have an approved fire extinguishing system.

0372Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Smoke Deficiencies

Ensure smoke barriers are constructed to a 1 hour fire resistance rating.

0550Potential for harm · IsolatedCorrected

Resident Rights Deficiencies

Honor the resident's right to a dignified existence, self-determination, communication, and to exercise his or her rights.

0353Potential for harm · IsolatedCorrected

Smoke Deficiencies

Inspect, test, and maintain automatic sprinkler systems.

0732Minimal · WidespreadCorrected

Nursing and Physician Services Deficiencies

Post nurse staffing information every day.

Apr 14, 2025Complaint
10
0600Immediate jeopardy · PatternCorrected

Freedom from Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Deficiencies

Protect each resident from all types of abuse such as physical, mental, sexual abuse, physical punishment, and neglect by anybody.

0689Immediate jeopardy · PatternCorrected

Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies

Ensure that a nursing home area is free from accident hazards and provides adequate supervision to prevent accidents.

0697Immediate jeopardy · PatternCorrected

Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies

Provide safe, appropriate pain management for a resident who requires such services.

0777Immediate jeopardy · PatternCorrected

Administration Deficiencies

Provide or obtain x-rays/tests when ordered and promptly tell the ordering practitioner of the results.

0600Immediate jeopardy · PatternCorrected

Freedom from Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Deficiencies

Protect each resident from all types of abuse such as physical, mental, sexual abuse, physical punishment, and neglect by anybody.

0689Immediate jeopardy · PatternCorrected

Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies

Ensure that a nursing home area is free from accident hazards and provides adequate supervision to prevent accidents.

0697Immediate jeopardy · PatternCorrected

Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies

Provide safe, appropriate pain management for a resident who requires such services.

0777Immediate jeopardy · PatternCorrected

Administration Deficiencies

Provide or obtain x-rays/tests when ordered and promptly tell the ordering practitioner of the results.

0908Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Environmental Deficiencies

Keep all essential equipment working safely.

0908Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Environmental Deficiencies

Keep all essential equipment working safely.

Feb 19, 2025Complaint
2
0656Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Resident Assessment and Care Planning Deficiencies

Develop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured.

0686Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies

Provide appropriate pressure ulcer care and prevent new ulcers from developing.

Oct 10, 2024Complaint
4
0558Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Resident Rights Deficiencies

Reasonably accommodate the needs and preferences of each resident.

0880Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Infection Control Deficiencies

Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program.

0583Potential for harm · IsolatedCorrected

Resident Rights Deficiencies

Keep residents' personal and medical records private and confidential.

0695Potential for harm · IsolatedCorrected

Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies

Provide safe and appropriate respiratory care for a resident when needed.

Oct 10, 2024Routine
5
0222Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Egress Deficiencies

Add doors in an exit area that do not require the use of a key from the exit side unless in case of special locking arrangements.

0271Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Egress Deficiencies

Have exits that are accessible at all times.

0321Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Smoke Deficiencies

Ensure that special areas are constructed so that walls can resist fire for one hour or have an approved fire extinguishing system.

0363Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Smoke Deficiencies

Install corridor and hallway doors that block smoke.

0353Potential for harm · IsolatedCorrected

Smoke Deficiencies

Inspect, test, and maintain automatic sprinkler systems.

Aug 24, 2023Routine
9
0584Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Resident Rights Deficiencies

Honor the resident's right to a safe, clean, comfortable and homelike environment, including but not limited to receiving treatment and supports for daily living safely.

0812Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Nutrition and Dietary Deficiencies

Procure food from sources approved or considered satisfactory and store, prepare, distribute and serve food in accordance with professional standards.

0880Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Infection Control Deficiencies

Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program.

0372Potential for harm · PatternCorrected

Smoke Deficiencies

Ensure smoke barriers are constructed to a 1 hour fire resistance rating.

0690Potential for harm · IsolatedCorrected

Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies

Provide appropriate care for residents who are continent or incontinent of bowel/bladder, appropriate catheter care, and appropriate care to prevent urinary tract infections.

0755Potential for harm · IsolatedCorrected

Pharmacy Service Deficiencies

Provide pharmaceutical services to meet the needs of each resident and employ or obtain the services of a licensed pharmacist.

0825Potential for harm · IsolatedCorrected

Quality of Life and Care Deficiencies

Provide or get specialized rehabilitative services as required for a resident.

0921Potential for harm · IsolatedCorrected

Environmental Deficiencies

Make sure that the nursing home area is safe, easy to use, clean and comfortable for residents, staff and the public.

0511Potential for harm · IsolatedCorrected

Services Deficiencies

Have properly installed electrical wiring and gas equipment.

Federal Penalties

Fine

Apr 14, 2025

$47,726

Ownership & Operations

Who Operates This Facility

Owner / Operator

Nocona Hospital District

Organization Type

for profit

Management Company

GAMBLE GUEST CARE HEALTH AND REHAB MANAGEMENT LLC

Administrator

OTIS C GORDY

Ownership & Management

Owners

Nocona Hospital District

Owner · Organization

100%

Key personnel

Gamvest Texas LLC5% or Greater Mortgage InterestMeekins, GregOfficer / DirectorThe Highlands Guest Care Center LLCManagerGamble, DennyManagerGordy, OtisManager
Source: Medicare provider data

Contact

Get in Touch

Contact this facility directly and verify the details that matter most to your family.

References & Resources

EveryPlace is a research directory. Facility information is compiled from public sources — Medicare.gov, state licensing portals, Google Places, and publicly available street-level imagery. Listings do not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or advertisement, and we do not accept payment for placement. Families should verify all details directly with the facility and the original sources linked above before making any care decisions. See our Research Policy for our editorial standards, correction process, and image-removal policy.

Safer Alternatives Nearby

Based on current clinical data, we identified 6 nearby facilities within 10 miles that may offer a stronger care environment. We encourage families to compare options carefully.

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