The Nursing Home Reform Act outlines patient’s rights while under the care of an assisted living facility or nursing home. It is important to understand patient rights before signing a contract, and these rights provide the knowledge to help you spot a problem at a potential nursing home.
Nursing home patients have the right to:
- Choose their physician
- Receive information in advance of care and treatment options
- Receive information about changes in care that could affect well-being
- To participate in planning care or treatment
- To accept or refuse any medical treatment or surgery
In addition:
- All patients must receive the same care, transfers and services, regardless of payment type
- Admission policies cannot require residents to waive their right to apply for Medicaid or require patients to apply for Medicaid
- Patients are entitled to be free from chemical and physical restraint imposed for discipline or convenience
- Services should be consistent with needs and preferences, when at all possible
When considering nursing homes, be sure to do your research, and consult with a qualified elder law attorney if at all possible.
