When you entrust your loved one to a nursing home, you expect compassion, safety, and high-quality care. Unfortunately, not all institutions and facilities meet these expectations.
The Nursing Home Abuse Center reports that the three most common complaints in nursing homes are staff shortages, poor care and living conditions, and abuse or neglect.
In the state of North Carolina, NC nursing home complaints can be made by calling the state hotline or by completing a form and faxing or mailing it.
Filing a complaint is necessary for holding facilities accountable and protecting your loved one and other residents from potential harm.
The article will go over the steps to take if you want to file a complaint against a nursing home, including what information is necessary, who to contact, and what to anticipate from the investigation.
Understanding Your Rights as a Nursing Home Resident or Family Member
Knowing your rights as a nursing home resident or family member can help you take the necessary steps to advocate for your own and your loved ones’ best interests.
Residents of nursing homes have the right to a safe environment, access to certain medical treatments, and adequate care. Staff of the facility are expected to treat its residents with utmost respect and dignity, along with keeping patient data secure and anonymous.
Understanding your rights entails actively participating in decisions about your own treatment and care. There are laws in place that allow you to file a valid complaint against a nursing home without fear of retaliation.
Gathering Evidence and Documentation
A complaint against a nursing home should be supported by meticulous documentation and thorough evidence. Important details such as date and time will help substantiate your claims.
Take photos intended as proof of the injury or dangerous condition. Visual evidence can provide a clear and objective documentation of the incident. Keep medical documents that can corroborate your claims.
Talk to other residents or their families if you have information to back up your complaints. If necessary, obtain written information from medical professionals that will enhance the credibility of your case.
Being organized with your evidence allows you to be more effective when advocating for your interests.
Contacting the Nursing Home Administration
Once you have gathered your proof, contact the nursing home administration directly to proceed with your case.
Before starting any conversation, always find a suitable individual with whom to meet or talk to address any issues you have with the facility. Problems with nursing homes often involve the facility director or administrator.
Respond calmly and clearly during your discussion with the relevant authority. Support your case presentation with fact-based evidence. Express the solutions that you expect the nursing home administration to resolve.
A fruitful conversation may result from a calm, pleasant, and professional tone.
Remember to write down the names of those you have interacted with, including their job titles, dates, and times.
Filing a Complaint With State and Federal Authorities
If the nursing home hasn’t addressed your concerns, you may file a state and federal complaint.
Prepare the necessary paperwork, including important details like dates, names, and incident reports.
Notify your state’s long-term care ombudsman and health department about your complaint. Familiarize yourself with state protocols, as reporting procedures may differ between states.
If the nursing home is Medicare and Medicaid certified, you may file a complaint with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
Advocate for your loved one’s health by visiting the CMS website or calling their hotline for help.
Following Up on Your Complaint and Seeking Further Assistance
If you have not received a response or believe nothing has been done to address your complaint, contact the agency where you filed it and request a follow-up.
If you feel that the agency’s response to your report is inadequate, get in touch with advocacy organizations that address elder care concerns. These groups offer guidance and assistance in negotiating.
Explore the possibility of seeking legal action. Keep in mind that the rights and well-being of your loved ones depend on constant campaigning.
Stay informed at all times and do not hesitate to offer additional information and assistance if necessary.