Reporting Nursing Home Injuries and Abuse
The idea that elderly people who have done so much for others would be subjected to abuse is unfathomable. As disheartening as the facts are, parents and grandparents are too often the victims of neglect and abuse from the very people tasked with their day-to-day care. That’s why nursing home abuse reporting is so important in California. If a loved one has suffered an injury or abuse, contact Johnson Attorneys Group. We will help you hold the abuser responsible and your family the compensation they deserve.
How to Report Abuse in a California Nursing Home or Assisted Living Facility
First and foremost, if you believe that someone in an assisted living facility or nursing home is in imminent danger, dial 911 immediately.
Organizations that you can report a nursing home or assisted living incident include;
- Adult Protective Services: These first responders will take elder abuse reports and act in the best interest of the victim. These professionals have the ability to make risk assessments and swift interventions to secure the safety of vulnerable elders. State APS organizations can provide access to, or put in place, things such as medical treatments, housing, social and economic support, emergency and community programs as well as services. APS is a key reporting agency that brings valuable resources to bear.
- Bureau of Medi-Cal Fraud & Elder Abuse (BMFEA): The Bureau of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse also works aggressively to protect patients in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities from abuse or neglect. Click here to file a complaint with BMFEA to have suspected abuse or neglect investigated.
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman: The California Department of Aging spearheads 35 programs throughout the state. The dedicated staff and volunteers at local-level programs investigate complaints brought by residents or their families. The organization works to resolve conflicts when applicable and acts on abuse and neglect incidents. An Ombudsman can help with quality care issues, resident rights, financial matters, privacy, as well as physical abuse and neglect. The goal is to ensure safe, dignified long-term care for our valued elder community members.
Get Fair Elder Abuse Compensation
The priority should always be to keep elderly members of the community safe and secure. That’s why proactive reporting and involving the authorities are important first steps. But, it’s also important to make certain that victims are properly compensated, and a strong message is sent to deter future abusers.
Under California’s Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act, civil lawsuits can be filed against individuals or companies that had a duty to provide care. The victim, a guardian, or family member can bring suit on the elderly person’s behalf if they are limited. The courts have long-recognized the severity of elder abuse and award punitive damages against parties that are responsible for the wrongful acts.
Call an Experienced California Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Attorney for a Free Case Review
It’s imperative that you report nursing home abuse as soon as possible. Once your loved one has first responders and caring community workers for support, call the Johnson Attorneys Group at 1-800-208-3538 for a complimentary case evaluation. We’ll help you and your family member get the compensation you deserve and make others think twice about harming an elderly Californian.
