Can Patient Complaints Lead to a Loss of Licensure for a Nursing Home?

Patient complaints are an inevitable aspect of the healthcare industry, and nursing homes are no exception. Unfortunately, these grievances can sometimes be the precursor to significant trouble for nursing homes, potentially even leading to the loss of their licenses. It is important to remember that patient complaints must not be taken lightly. Dismissing complaints or failing to address issues that could affect the health and safety of residents could lead to severe consequences, including a potential loss of licensure. When these issues arise, a facility can make sure they are addressed correctly by working with an attorney who is experienced in nursing home license defense.

Issues Affecting Nursing Home Licenses in Indiana

The Indiana Department of Health (IDH) oversees the licensure of nursing homes in the state. The agency is entrusted with ensuring that nursing homes in Indiana comply with their regulatory requirements. It has the authority to license, certify, and regulate nursing homes by conducting regular inspections and investigating complaints. The IDH also has the power to take disciplinary measures against nursing homes that fail to comply with the state’s laws and regulations. By law, all complaints received by ISDH are reviewed, and there is a great deal of rigor in the process of determining whether a nursing home is meeting the appropriate standards of care.

The IDH follows specific standards and guidelines regarding the quality of care that must be provided by nursing homes. These guidelines encompass a wide variety of issues, including resident rights, staff training, living conditions, medical treatment, and the administration of medication. Patient complaints may arise across all these areas, and any substantiated complaints will have a significant impact on the nursing home in question.

In many cases, patient complaints will involve allegations of abuse, neglect, or lack of adequate care. Inadequate staffing, substandard care, medication errors, and mistreatment or neglect of residents are all issues that can lead to complaints from patients or their families. In addition, nursing homes that do not maintain equipment, follow proper sanitation procedures, or provide emergency care for their residents can face serious consequences. If these allegations are substantiated, the IDH may suspend or revoke a nursing home's license, or it may choose not to renew a license. The IDH can also impose administrative penalties, such as fines or non-monetary remedies, in response to complaints against nursing homes.

While patient complaints alone will not necessarily result in the loss of licensure, it is crucial for nursing homes to handle these issues promptly and take appropriate actions to protect the health, safety, and well-being of residents. Nursing homes must have a system in place to receive, investigate, and resolve complaints in accordance with state and federal laws. This includes documenting all complaints, conducting thorough investigations, and implementing corrective measures if needed. Additionally, nursing homes must keep accurate records and ensure that staff members are properly trained to avoid the risk of disciplinary action or loss of licensure.

Contact Our Indiana Nursing Home License Defense Attorney

Failure to properly address patient complaints can have serious consequences for nursing homes in Indiana. By acknowledging complaints, taking them seriously, and responding correctly, nursing homes can ensure that they are providing the proper care, and they can minimize the risk of losing their licenses. At The Law Offices of Joseph J. Bogdan, LLC, our Indianapolis nursing home license defense lawyer can provide assistance with these matters, helping a facility take the correct steps to avoid disciplinary action. To set up a free consultation, contact our office at 463-219-2612.

Sources:

https://www.in.gov/health/long-term-carenursing-homes/comprehensive-care-facility-nursing-homes-licensing-and-certification-program/

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/laws/2021/ic/titles/016/#16-28-2