MyLivingChoice

Northcrest Specialty Care

2001health Street

3.4(48 ratings)· Waterloo average: 4

Part of Care Initiatives · 43 communities · 3.6★ average

Northcrest Specialty Care, photo 11 / 4

Quick Facts

Total units
94
Medicare rating
2 of 5

CMS Care Compare

Ownership
Non profit, Corporation
Certified beds
94
Therapy services
On-site physical and occupational therapy
Stay type
Short-term rehab stays after hospital discharge

What Families Think

Reviews for Northcrest are mixed but mostly positive, with several families praising the cleanliness, spacious rooms, and caring attitude of staff and therapists. One detailed negative review describes unresponsive aides, poor communication, and alleged retaliation, which stands out sharply against the otherwise favorable accounts.

The Good

  • Facility described as clean and odor-free
  • Staff described as caring and attentive
  • Rooms noted as spacious and comfortable
  • Daily programs and activities to keep residents engaged
  • Social worker praised for strong family support
  • Physical and occupational therapists called knowledgeable and kind

The Bad

  • One detailed report of unresponsive aides and ignored call lights
  • One report of poor communication among staff about resident care
  • One report of staff retaliation after family complaints

AI-generated from reviews and community data.

Northcrest Specialty Care is a senior living community in Waterloo, Iowa offering Skilled Nursing / Long Term Care. Amenities include Restaurant style Dining Room, Gathering / Activity Spaces and Social Activities. Families rate it 3.4 out of 5 across 48 reviews.

About Northcrest Specialty Care

Northcrest Specialty Care is a skilled nursing and long-term care facility in Waterloo, Iowa, licensed for 94 residents.

Families describe the facility as clean, spacious, and well-maintained, with staff who show genuine attention to residents. Several reviewers compared it favorably to other nursing homes in the area, noting its open layout and the freedom residents have to move about. One recent patient praised the therapists as "knowledgeable and kind" and credited the staff with friendly, helpful care throughout a two-week stay. However, experiences vary significantly: while some families consistently report positive interactions and attentive care, others describe insufficient staffing, unresponsive call lights, and gaps in communication among staff, concerns that suggest inconsistency in daily operations.

Northcrest holds a 3.4 out of 5 star rating across 48 Google reviews, reflecting the split in family experiences. Prospective residents and families may want to visit in person and speak with current families to understand whether staffing and responsiveness meet their specific needs.

Types of Care at Northcrest Specialty Care

Skilled Nursing / Long Term Care

Amenities

Room Amenities

  • Cable or Satellite TV
  • Emergency Call System
  • Private Bathroom
  • Private Rooms
  • Wheelchair Accessible

Meals & Dining

  • Dietary Accommodations (Gluten-Free, Low / No Sodium, No Sugar, Vegan)
  • Restaurant style Dining Room

Community Amenities

  • 24-Hour Staff
  • Gathering / Activity Spaces
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry Service
  • Medication Management
  • On-Site Nurse (RN)

Activities

  • Social Activities (Happy Hour, Wine Tasting, Dances, Karaoke)

Need help deciding?

Tell us what you're looking for and we'll match you with communities that fit. Free, and you choose who contacts you.

Help Me Choose

Reviews of Northcrest Specialty Care

3.4overall · 48 ratings combined

3.4★ on Google (48)

Mike Adams

Apr 2026

via Google

Good morning. I have stayed in a nursing facility before, and was treated so horribly that I tried to escape. Let's just say that my impression of nursing homes/skilled facilities has not been great at all. I was told that I need to go to Northcrest Facility and I must say that I was not happy at all. From the time that I was wheel chaired in, I felt more like a resident than just a room number. The young lady in charge, was right there to greet me and get me settled in. I was showed my room, which in all actuality, is a pretty good sized room. I have to give a 5 start rating to the aides, nurses, and the staff at NorthCrest. After just coming from Iowa City after surgery, I was really treated like i mattered. All of my concerns were met, all of my questions were answered. Im not ashamed to admit that coming off prostate cancer surgery, I had a few mishaps, and eveytime it was cleaned up reassuring me that it was okay. Some people work jobs cause they want a paycheck. Some people actually love their jobs and care about people. The staff at NorthCrest honestly care about their residents. They dont just put you in a room and leave you there. They have daily programs and events to keep everyone engaged in something. It made my stay while recovering, very enjoyable. So, I take my hat off to the staff at NorthCrest. Thank you for treating me like a resident and taking care of my needs. Mike Adams.

Robin Nichols

Apr 2026

via Google

I have not had a family member who was at this facility, but I know 4 people who have stayed here. The families of these people always had such good things to say about the care their family member received while there. I actually have visited the facility, and was shocked that it was so nice inside after some of the other places I’ve visited in the area. It’s roomy, and clean. It’s actually a beautiful location as well.

CJ

Mar 2026

via Google

The place is a joke you absolutely have to be with your loved one 24/7 to get them any care at all or find someone to even help them in the evening. The things you observe while you’re there for a while will make your blood boil. The aides and nurses are incompetent and lazy. They will shut off the call light and say they’re coming back and don’t. There is no communication between any of them. They take no pride in their job and get belligerent when you know anything about your loved one more than they know. They do not care at all about the residents and can be heard in the halls making fun of your loved ones. They retaliate if you say anything and take it out on your loved ones. I would never recommend this place to anyone who cares about the person they are looking for care for even temporarily. It’s absolutely a disgrace.

Missy R

Dec 2025

via Google

These reviews absolutely shock me. This is an extremely clean facility with people who love the residents. It's wide and open. The rooms are good sized. They keep the residents clean. The place is fresh and clean. I'm guess people haven't encountered other nursing homes that are God awful. They smell. The residents sit sloped over in the same place for way too long. The residents freely roam. When it's nice out, they notify someone and go outside on their own, if able. There are a few residents that enjoy seeing people come. They will greet you and say goodbye when you leave. The social worker Katie, is like someone I have never met in my life. If someone told me she was an angel sent from heaven, I would have to agree. I can't even explain what she's done for my father. Her door is always open. She's not there just for the residents but the family as well. I know there is someone who started a nasty campaign because their family member fell in the shower. I have to believe a lot of these bad reviews stemmed from her Facebook page. It's sad.

peggy R

Nov 2025

via Google

I spent 16 days at Northcrest after spending 16 days at Allen hospital. I cannot say enough good things about the care I received while I was there. The staff were all very friendly and helpful. The physical and occupational therapists were very knowledgeableand kind. My only complaint was the bed and chair in my room. 2 weeks home and my tailbone is still sore. The facility was clean and had no funky odors.

Request information

Ask about availability, pricing, or a tour. Your details go only to Northcrest Specialty Care, never sold or shared.

Government Inspection History

7 inspection visits in the last three years, 49 citations on file. Inspections are conducted by state agencies on behalf of the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Feb 12, 2026Fire Safety StandardHealth ComplaintHealth Standard7 citations
  • Make sure that a working call system is available in each resident's bathroom and bathing area.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Mar 14, 2026

  • 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.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Mar 14, 2026

  • Assess the resident completely in a timely manner when first admitted, and then periodically, at least every 12 months.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Mar 14, 2026

  • Encode each resident’s assessment data and transmit these data to the State within 7 days of assessment.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Mar 14, 2026

  • Ensure each resident receives an accurate assessment.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Mar 14, 2026

  • Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Mar 14, 2026

  • Have policies on smoking.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Mar 14, 2026

Jun 4, 2025Health Complaint1 citation
  • Provide care and assistance to perform activities of daily living for any resident who is unable.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Jul 3, 2025

Jan 30, 2025Fire Safety StandardHealth Standard9 citations
  • Have exits that are accessible at all times.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2025

  • Inspect, test, and maintain automatic sprinkler systems.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2025

  • Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Mar 1, 2025

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

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Mar 1, 2025

  • Provide enough food/fluids to maintain a resident's health.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Mar 1, 2025

  • Develop and implement policies and procedures for flu and pneumonia vaccinations.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Mar 1, 2025

  • Ensure each resident receives an accurate assessment.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Mar 1, 2025

  • Educate residents and staff on COVID-19 vaccination, offer the COVID-19 vaccine to eligible residents and staff after education, and properly document each resident and staff member's vaccination status.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Mar 1, 2025

  • Provide appropriate treatment and care according to orders, resident’s preferences and goals.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Mar 1, 2025

Oct 1, 2024Health Complaint1 citation
  • Provide appropriate treatment and care according to orders, resident’s preferences and goals.

    Severity G of L: actual harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Oct 14, 2024

Apr 11, 2024Health Complaint1 citation
  • Provide safe, appropriate pain management for a resident who requires such services.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected May 11, 2024

Jan 30, 2024Fire Safety StandardHealth ComplaintHealth Standard27 citations
  • Have generator or other power source capable of supplying service within 10 seconds.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2024

  • Develop and maintain an Emergency Preparedness Program (EP).

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2024

  • Conduct risk assessment and an All-Hazards approach.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2024

  • Address patient/client population and determine types of services needed.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2024

  • Develop Emergency Preparedness policies and procedures.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2024

  • Address subsistence needs for staff and patients.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2024

  • Establish procedures for tracking staff and patients during an emergency.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2024

  • Establish policies and procedures including evacuation.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2024

  • Provide emergency officials' contact information.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2024

  • Provide primary/alternate means for communication.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2024

  • Establish emergency prep training and testing.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2024

  • Conduct testing and exercise requirements.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2024

  • Inspect, test, and maintain automatic sprinkler systems.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Mar 5, 2024

  • Have posted "No-smoking" signs in areas where smoking is not permitted or ashtrays provided where smoking was allowed.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2024

  • To conduct inspection, testing and maintenance of fire doors by qualified individuals.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Feb 7, 2024

  • Honor the resident's right to organize and participate in resident/family groups in the facility.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Feb 29, 2024

  • Employ sufficient staff with the appropriate competencies and skills sets to carry out the functions of the food and nutrition service, including a qualified dietician.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Feb 29, 2024

  • Make sure that a working call system is available in each resident's bathroom and bathing area.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Feb 29, 2024

  • Provide care and assistance to perform activities of daily living for any resident who is unable.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Feb 29, 2024

  • Honor the resident's right to voice grievances without discrimination or reprisal and the facility must establish a grievance policy and make prompt efforts to resolve grievances.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Feb 29, 2024

  • 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.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Feb 29, 2024

  • Assess the resident completely in a timely manner when first admitted, and then periodically, at least every 12 months.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Feb 29, 2024

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

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Feb 29, 2024

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

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Feb 29, 2024

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

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Feb 29, 2024

  • Honor the resident's right to request, refuse, and/or discontinue treatment, to participate in or refuse to participate in experimental research, and to formulate an advance directive.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Feb 29, 2024

  • Ensure each resident receives an accurate assessment.

    Severity B of L: potential for minimal harm, patternCorrected Feb 29, 2024

Jul 13, 2023Health Complaint3 citations
  • Ensure services provided by the nursing facility meet professional standards of quality.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Aug 10, 2023

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

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Aug 10, 2023

  • Timely report suspected abuse, neglect, or theft and report the results of the investigation to proper authorities.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Aug 10, 2023

Source: CMS Care Compare, public federal data covering certified nursing facilities, refreshed monthly. Citations range from A (least serious) to L (most serious) on the federal scope and severity scale. Most citations are corrected quickly; review the details and ask the community about anything that concerns you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of care does Northcrest Specialty Care offer?

Northcrest Specialty Care offers Skilled Nursing / Long Term Care.

Where is Northcrest Specialty Care located?

Northcrest Specialty Care is located at 2001health Street in Waterloo, Iowa.

What do families say about Northcrest Specialty Care?

Reviews for Northcrest are mixed but mostly positive, with several families praising the cleanliness, spacious rooms, and caring attitude of staff and therapists. One detailed negative review describes unresponsive aides, poor communication, and alleged retaliation, which stands out sharply against the otherwise favorable accounts.

How did Northcrest Specialty Care do on recent health and safety inspections?

Northcrest Specialty Care had 7 government inspection visits in the last three years, with 49 citations on file according to CMS Care Compare data. The full history, including what each citation was for and whether it was corrected, is in the inspection section on this page.

How can families visit Northcrest Specialty Care?

Submit the Request Information form on this page to connect with Northcrest Specialty Care and arrange a tour. Sharing your timeline and care needs up front helps the community prepare for your visit.

Work at Northcrest Specialty Care? Claim this listing to update photos, pricing, and details. It's free.

Nearby Communities

Other senior living options within 25 miles of Waterloo.

Prefer to stay home?

Home care agencies serving Waterloo bring help to the house: daily living, companionship, and respite for family caregivers.

All home care agencies in Waterloo