Friday, February 13, 2009

How to Check Quality of Care at Illinois Nursing Homes


The Chicago Tribune published an excellent investigative report on the quality of Illinois nursing homes. It is an unfortunate reality that many of our most vulnerable citizens, our senior citizens, are cared for in facilities that not only don't meet their residents' needs, but often are place where abuse and gross negligence occur.

If you want to check the quality of a nursing home, the following places can provide information:
  • Contact an attorney. Illinois nursing homes have a duty to adhere to the Nursing Home Care Act and other state and federal rules. If you or a loved one have been injured due to the care received at a nursing home, contact Mike Keating of Keating Law Offices at MKeating@KeatingLegal.com or 312-208-7702.
  • Review the home's most recent annual inspection report, which must be posted at the facility. Also review previous inspection reports and complaint investigations. Facilities must make them available.
  • To check if a nursing home has been fined, go to www.idph.state.il.us and search for "nursing home violators."
  • If care is poor, consult the home's director of nursing. Review the resident's care plan and doctor's orders. File complaints with the Illinois Department of Public Health, the home's ombudsman or, in cases of suspected abuse, the police.