How to Report Nursing Home Neglect or Abuse in Illinois
CHICAGO, IL – There are a variety of options available to report nursing home abuse or neglect in Illinois. According to data provided by Nursing Home Abuse Justice, there are nearly 5 million elder abuse cases annually. More than 100,000 individuals live reside in Illinois nursing homes.
Who to contact
You can reach out to the following entities to report nursing home abuse or neglect in Illinois:
- The Regional Ombudsman is based on the region or county you live in
- Calling the Senior HelpLine
- Contacting the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)
- Healthcare and Family Services for Supportive Living Facility Complaints
- Illinois State Police Medicaid Fraud Unit
Regional Ombudsman
Ombudsman are officials appointed to investigate individuals’ complaints including nursing home abuse and neglect; however, they are not emergency responders. It’s important after reaching out to your local Ombudsman to alert them of abuse or neglect that you call 911. Your local Ombudsman will explain options for reporting abuse, residents’ rights and Ombudsman protocol for responding to complaints.
The Senior HelpLine can also help provide contact information for your Regional Ombudsman.
Illinois Department of Public Health
A Central Complaint Registry is operated by IDPH to record and investigate complaints against nursing home facilities, hospitals, and other home health agencies. You can call the hotline at 800-252-4343; however, it’s recommended to submit complaints online due to a high volume of calls. To submit an online complaint, please click here.
Healthcare and Family Services for Supportive Living Facilities Complaints
The hotline is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 800-226-0768. All calls are kept confidential.
Illinois State Police Medicaid Fraud Control Unit
The Illinois State Police Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigates long-term care facilities related to Medicaid Fraud, abuse or neglect. Medicaid fraud may include defrauding the Medicaid system by billing for services that weren’t delivered or underdelivered. It may also include, but is not limited to, battery, sexual assault, and failure to deliver services or medications. To report Medicaid Fraud, abuse or neglect, contact 888-557-9503.
Contact a Chicago, Illinois Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Attorney
If you believe your loved one has suffered abuse or neglect while living in their nursing home facility, you should contact a skilled nursing home abuse lawyer immediately. The experienced attorneys at the Dinizulu Law Group have the resources and knowledge to fight for your loved one until justice is served. To receive a free consultation, call 312-384-1920 now.
