How To Report A Quality Of Care Violation In A Nursing Home In Florida
We rely on nursing homes to care for our most vulnerable loved ones. Sadly, in far too many cases, nursing homes fail to live up to their basic responsibilities. According to data cited by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), approximately 1 in 5 nursing homes nationwide were cited for serious quality violations in 2015. You can take action to hold a nursing home accountable for a quality of care violation. Here, our Florida whistleblower rights attorneys provide an overview of the key steps to take to report a nursing home quality of care violation.
Three Steps to Address a Nursing Home Quality of Care Violation
- Document the Violations—Keep Careful Records
Nursing home residents have rights under federal law and state law, including the Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987 and Florida Statutes § 400.022. A quality of care violation may breach one or more of these laws. When reporting a quality of care violation, it is best to collect as much information as possible. While you certainly do not need to know everything to report your suspicions, a comprehensive initial report can help to get justice for vulnerable residents.
- Contact an Attorney to Learn How to Protect Your Rights
A nursing home quality of care violation is a very serious matter, and an experienced Florida whistleblower attorney can help you understand and protect your rights. Depending on the nature of the allegations, you may have legal remedies such as reporting the violation to the appropriate state or federal agency, filing a private lawsuit, or filing a False Claims Act whistleblower complaint.
- Know Your Rights Under the False Claims Act (FCA) and Other Whistleblower Laws
A nursing home quality of care violation may be a breach of the federal False Claims Act or the Florida False Claims Act. The vast majority of licensed assisted living facilities receive some form of federal or state tax dollars. If they abuse taxpayer money, they may be held legally accountable through a False Claims Act lawsuit. Whistleblowers can initiate a False Claim Act lawsuit on their own. If money is recovered on behalf of the government, the whistleblower may be entitled to a financial award. An experience Florida nursing home quality of care violation attorney can provide legal advice about initiating a False Claims Act case.
Call Our Florida Whistleblower Attorneys for Immediate Help
At Guttman, Freidin & Celler, our Florida nursing home quality of care violation attorneys are passionate, justice focused advocates for our clients. If you have any questions about reporting a quality of care violation in a nursing home, we are here to help. Contact us today for a strictly confidential review of your case. We provide whistleblower representation in Florida and nationwide.
Resources:
kff.org/medicaid/issue-brief/key-issues-in-long-term-services-and-supports-quality/
apps.ahca.myflorida.com/hcfc/
