Nursing Home Health Care Reform May Have Positive Effects for Oklahomans
The next four years will be critical in reforming health care in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, adult-day care centers, and residential-care homes in Oklahoma and nationwide, according to an article on NewsOK.com. Approximately $777 million is being used to instigate reforms in nursing homes across the country, which will include immediate reporting of crimes to authorities, steep penalties for crimes that are not reported, criminal background checks by way of fingerprinting, and penalties against long-term care administrators who retaliate against whistleblowers. Facilities with “non-compliance” reports will be evaluated every six months. The article states that most reforms will begin in 2011 and 2012.
In addition, the reform will provide more thorough and accurate disclosure requirements, which will make it easier for law enforcement agencies as well as the general public to identify an owner of a nursing home or other elder care facility. Another requirement that these facilities will have to adapt is a 60-day notice of closure with relocation and transfer plans of all residents. The consequence for not doing so would be a fine upwards of $100,000.
Many citizens are happy about the new reform plans since nursing home neglect in Oklahoma as well as the rest of the country is a serious issue. Currently, there are about 20,000 people in the state who utilize long-term services in 325 nursing homes. Oklahoma has also licensed another 11,500 beds for assisted living centers, residential care facilities, and intermediate centers for the mentally handicapped.
The elderly community holds some of our most vulnerable citizens who deserve to live their lives with dignity. When nursing home abuse in Oklahoma is committed, all responsible parties must be held accountable for their actions. If you or a loved one has suffered nursing home abuse, contact Ray Maples, dedicated Oklahoma City nursing home abuse attorney and founder of The Maples Law Firm. With many years of experience, Mr. Maples has the resources necessary to build a strong case on behalf of you and your loved one. Contact Ray Maples at (405) 705-5050 to schedule a free consultation.