Nursing homes and elderly care facilities are supposed to be there to help their residents. When one of these facilities, even if it’s just one bad actor, breaks this agreement, it can be detrimental to loved ones, and laws may be broken in the process.
Nursing home neglect is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences for vulnerable residents. You’ll need to make sure to report the neglect or abuse right away. In Ohio, there are several ways to report nursing home neglect and ensure that residents receive the care and protection they deserve. Here are some ways to report nursing home neglect in Ohio:
The Ohio Department of Health is responsible for regulating and monitoring nursing homes in the state. If you suspect nursing home neglect, you can file a complaint with the Department of Health. You can call their Complaint Hotline at 1-800-342-0553, or submit a complaint online through their website.
The Ohio Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is a state-funded program that advocates for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities. The program provides free and confidential assistance to residents and their families, and can help with complaints related to neglect, abuse, and other issues. You can contact the Ohio Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program at 1-800-282-1206.
If you suspect that a resident is in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement immediately. This could include situations where a resident is being physically or sexually abused, or is in danger of serious harm or injury. Call 911 or the local police department to report the abuse or neglect.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of nursing home neglect or abuse, you may want to consider contacting a nursing home abuse attorney. An attorney can help you understand your legal options, and may be able to help you pursue compensation for damages related to the neglect or abuse.
Upon filing a complaint with the nursing home, or reporting the neglect to outside organizations, the facility may still try to dismiss your complaints. This is why it’s important to seek legal help with your case. An experienced attorney will know the right path to get the justice you deserve in your neglect case.
Ohio created the Ohio Nursing Home Patient Bill of Rights (Ohio law: ORC §3721.13) to protect nursing home patients in cases of neglect and abuse in nursing home and assisted living facilities.
View the full list of rights on the Ohio’s Official State Laws and Regulations Website.
Reporting nursing home neglect is a crucial step in protecting the rights and well-being of vulnerable residents. If you suspect nursing home neglect, it’s important to take action and report the abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities.
Contact the nursing home neglect team at Paulozzi LPA right away if you suspect any abuse or neglect to a loved one. Our firm will help ensure that all nursing home residents receive the care and protection they deserve.
