Pennsylvania providers are pushing back against the state’s Department of Health after it released inaccurate nursing home coronavirus data, despite being warned about the errors. 

The state first released a list of nursing homes with coronavirus cases last week, but it soon became apparent the information was incorrect after state officials noted that provider websites reported different statistics than the state, Spotlight PA reported.

The inaccurate information has created panic and anger amongst family members, distrust amongst staff, and frustration for providers, said Zach Shamberg, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Health Care Association. He noted that the agency had admitted knowing the information was incorrect.  

“Minutes after the data was published, it became clear it contained inconsistent and inaccurate information. The posted data simply did not match with providers’ actual experiences with COVID-19, the information that they have shared with families, residents and staff, or the data they had already submitted to the Department of Health,” Shamberg said.  

The organization said it would be forced to explore “possible legal action” against the state if it did not take down the inaccurate data until it can be properly corrected. 

“While the public has overwhelmingly demanded the disclosure of this data, it is imperative that the department provide facts, not fiction, when reporting on the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic,” the group said. 

The state agency said it was working to correct the errors after being questioned by lawmakers. 

“We are constantly working to make sure the data we provide is accurate,” health department spokesperson Nate Wardle said.