CHICAGO, IL – No nursing home resident should ever have to endure subpar care including abuse and gross negligence. But that’s exactly what’s been happening at Illinois nursing homes and other long-term care facilities for decades.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic took the lives of innocent residents and staff, Illinois nursing homes have been cited frequently with poor infection control, understaffing issues, inappropriate administration, and the overuse of antipsychotics.
AARP Illinois is a non-profit organization fighting to ensure nursing home residents receive safe, high-quality, care by advocating for nursing home reform. Proposed in the Nursing Home Rate Reform includes:
- Prioritizing accountability, quality of care for residents, and workforce development in long-term care facilities;
- Disrupting racial inequalities and health disparities of nursing home residents who are on Medicaid;
- Require greater transparency of nursing home ownership and revenue;
- And directly tie state and Medicaid nursing home funding and incentives to resident-focused nursing home performance.
Fate was in the hands of the Illinois General Assembly last week to bring relief to nursing home residents by passing the Nursing Home Rate Reform bill and providing residents with the high-quality care they deserve.
Governor J.B. Pritzker passed House Bill 246 which, “for 45,000 vulnerable seniors in nursing homes across the state, the passage will mean improved care and accountability in the places they call home.”
For the first time, there will be increased funding for nursing homes that will be tied to staffing levels at facilities, ensuring new funds go directly to improving care for senior citizens instead of profit for owners and holding those accountable.
The work of this bill began two years ago when the state took an in-depth look into facilities. The new system will be implemented starting in July. Industry staffing levels will drive improved care and safety and provide overall better quality of life for many.
Who to Report Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect to in Illinois
If you or your loved one is being abused or neglected in their nursing home facility, there are several entities that can help you. It’s important to report the abuse or neglect immediately to the nursing home administrator and police. Additionally, you can contact the following resources:
- The Regional Ombudsman located in the region or county of the nursing home facility. You can view Illinois Ombudsman program here.
- Senior HelpLine by calling (800) 252-8966
- Visit the Illinois Department of Public Health website
- Healthcare and Family Services for Supportive Living Facility Complaints by calling (844) 528-8444
- Or the Illinois State Police Medicaid Fraud Unit by visiting their website
Contact a Nursing Home Abuse/Neglect Lawyer
At the Dinizulu Law Group, we understand how difficult of a situation this can be and we are here to help you every step of the way. Our nursing home abuse and neglect attorneys have the resources, knowledge, and skills needed to hold those who are accountable for their actions while providing you a sense of relief and comfort knowing your case is safe with us. Call our office today for a free consultation at (312) 384-1920.
