In an attempt to protect the well-being and prosperity of nursing home patients across the country, the U.S Department of Health and Human Services conducted a study to investigate the rate of abuse and neglect allegations and the subsequent documentation of such events, as required by federal law.
The results are eye-opening.
The study found that 85 percent of nursing home facilities reported at least one allegation of abuse or neglect in 2012, according to a study published in August.
The report also found that only 53 percent of allegations of abuse or neglect were reported, as is required by the federal government. Only 76 percent of nursing homes “maintained policies that address Federal regulations” and only 61 percent could prove federal compliance with paperwork.
The study was conducted by reviewing facilities policies pertaining to allegations of neglect, reviewing facilities’ policies when it comes to reviewing possible crimes, and by surveying professional nursing home administrators. The study also took into account a random allegation from said facilities and the facility’s documentation of the case.
Nursing facilities are required to report allegations of abuse or neglect to state agencies within one day of the allegation. Within less than week, facilities must report investigations into these reports.
This study proved the standard for nursing home care in this country still fails to fulfill moral and ethical responsibilities when it comes to caring for the elderly.
Click here to read more about this study.
The Kosieradzki • Smith Law Firm represents clients in cases involving catastrophic injury caused by nursing homes and other care facilities that fail to provide proper care. If you believe your loved one has been harmed due neglect or abuse in a nursing home, take action and contact the Kosieradzki • Smith Law Firm online or call us toll-free at (877) 552-2873 to set up a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.
