It is unfortunate, but nursing home abuse, neglect and malpractice is very common in Louisiana and other states. Families entrust nursing homes to care for their loves, but due to under trained, under staffed and under qualified staff, neglect and abuse often happens. To address these problems state agencies are created to monitor and manage nursing home complaints.
Anyone who has knowledge of a resident of a nursing home being abused, neglected or denied care or treatment may make a complaint. In Louisiana, the agency responsible for investigating complaints is the Department of Health and Hospitals, Health Standards Section. A complaint is preferably made in writing but can be phoned in. Their toll free number is 1-888-810-1819. The mailing address is DHH, Health Standard Section, P. O. Box 3767 Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70821. A form is provided at the Department’s web site.
Once a complaint is made, the department reviews the complaint and if it is found reasonable, an investigation is commenced. The person who filed the complaint is then notified of the results. If the nursing home is found with any violations, corrective actions must then be taken or they are subject to fines and revocation of their license. The names of the complainant and the resident are not disclosed without their written consent Retaliatory action against complainant or resident is strictly prohibitive.
Help stop nursing home abuse and neglect. If you suspect abuse or neglect file your complaint. As an attorney for nearly 20 years, I have seen and provided legal representation for victims of nursing home abuse and neglect, and understand how important it is to take action!
Richard J. Arsenault, 2011
