How can I report nursing home abuse?

• Contact Local Authorities: In case of immediate danger or emergency, call your local law enforcement agency or emergency services. They can respond quickly to ensure the safety of the resident.

• Report to Adult Protective Services (APS): APS is a government agency responsible for investigating cases of elder abuse, including nursing home abuse. Contact your local APS office and provide them with detailed information about the suspected abuse. They will guide you through the reporting process and initiate an investigation.

• State Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Each state in the United States has a Long-Term Care Ombudsman program that advocates for residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities. They handle complaints, investigate abuse allegations, and work to resolve issues. You can find the contact information for your state’s Ombudsman program online or by calling the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.

• State Health Department: Contact your state’s health department or health regulatory agency. They oversee licensing and regulation of nursing homes and can investigate allegations of abuse or neglect. They may have a specific division dedicated to investigating complaints against long-term care facilities.

• File a Complaint with CMS: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is responsible for overseeing the quality of care in nursing homes that receive Medicare or Medicaid funding. You can file a complaint with CMS online through their Nursing Home Compare website or by calling their complaint hotline at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

• Contact the Nursing Home Administrator: Notify the administrator or management of the nursing home about your concerns. Provide them with specific details of the suspected abuse and request immediate action. Follow up in writing and keep copies of your correspondence.

• Involve Legal Authorities: If you believe the abuse is severe or there is evidence of criminal wrongdoing, you may need to involve local law enforcement. Consult with an attorney who specializing in nursing home abuse cases to understand your legal options and to protect your loved one’s rights.

When reporting nursing home abuse, provide as much detailed information as possible, including the names of individuals involved, dates and times of incidents, and descriptions of the abuse. Remember to keep copies of any relevant documents, photographs, or other evidence that can support your report.

Reporting nursing home abuse is an essential step in holding the responsible parties accountable and protecting vulnerable residents. By taking action, you can contribute to ensuring a safe and caring environment for your loved one and other individuals in the facility.