Many different factors go into choosing a nursing home for a loved one. What is often overlooked is the potential legal concerns a nursing home might be involved in or dealt with in the past. You should look into issues like nursing home abuse, exploitation, neglect, and other concerns before ultimately deciding on one. A bedsore attorney in The Bronx, NY can provide some guidance on these issues and here are some of the top concerns to be aware of.
Research Any Disciplinary Action Against Nursing Homes
If a bedsore attorney has ever pursued legal action against a nursing home, chances are you will be able to learn about it. The Nursing Home Care Act has an abundance of information on its website that includes whether a nursing home has had any violations. Medicare is also a valuable resource to check for any disciplinary action against nursing homes.
Ensure Nursing Homes Have Liability Insurance
Most families assume nursing homes have appropriate liability insurance, but a bedsore attorney in Brooklyn will tell you otherwise. When they don’t have liability insurance and your loved one gets injured, it’s possible they won’t have the money to pay for the injuries. This can lead to a huge legal problem and could create a significant financial burden for your family. Always ask the nursing home whether they have liability insurance and obtain proof of that insurance for your records.
Arbitration Of Disputes
Nursing homes often require new residents to agree to arbitration of disputes. This means if there is ever a legal issue, the case will be decided by an arbitrator without the possibility of going through the court system. Depending on the circumstances, your bedsore attorney in The Bronx might want a jury to hear the facts of your case. But if you are required to sign an arbitration clause then this will never happen.
Never Ignore Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse is rampant and is sometimes the result of being understaffed. This is no excuse for abusing residents, so always look out for any signs of abuse and alert a bedsore attorney as soon as possible.
Sinel & Olesen, PLLC can help you with any legal concerns you might have with a nursing home. We have a trustworthy and experienced bedsore attorney ready to listen to your case when you call. Choosing the right nursing home is essential for your loved one, so contact us at any time if you need legal advice or representation.
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What causes bedsores and pressure sores?
People develop bed sores when they don’t receive adequate medical attention. This results in an open wound and irritated skin patches that are caused by friction or unrelieved/prolonged pressure.
Although a bed sore can develop almost anywhere, the most common areas of the body to develop them are:
- the backside
- the buttocks
- heels
- ankles
- hips
- the head
Can I sue for bedsores?
Why are some people at risk for bedsores or pressure sores?
Anyone who relies on heathcare staff to reposition them is at greater risk since failure to do this can cause bedsores to develop.
Even for elderly and immobile patients, bedsores are completely preventable if the staff uses proper precautions and ensures that residents receive adequate care.