You should report suspected nursing home abuse in Georgia directly to the Georgia Department of Community Health, Healthcare Facility Regulation Division.
You may also wish to report your concerns to the ombudsman, as well as the facility administrator. If you hold certain positions in healthcare, you are legally obligated to report suspected elder abuse. Georgia highly encourages all other citizens to report suspected abuse.
If your loved one might be a victim of nursing home abuse, in addition to reporting your concerns, it is important to speak with an Atlanta nursing home abuse lawyer. Our team has recovered millions for victims and their families. Call today for a free consultation.
What Is a Mandatory Reporter in Georgia?
In Georgia, a mandatory reporter is someone who, due to their professional role or responsibilities, is legally obligated to report any suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable individuals. Failure to report can lead to legal penalties, including criminal charges.
Many nursing home employees are mandatory reporters under state law in Georgia. This includes administrators, nursing staff, physical therapists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals. If you hold one of the positions, you must report suspected abuse.
Anyone else who becomes aware of or suspects elder abuse, such as family members, friends, volunteers, or other residents, is strongly encouraged to report it, even if not legally obligated.
File a Report With the Division of Aging Services
The Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services, is your source for filing an official elder care abuse report for a violation occurring in a nursing home. You can Report Elder Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation online or call their toll-free number.
Once you make your report, your job is done. The agency will investigate your allegations and take action. Be aware that the Healthcare Facility Regulation Division does not provide emergency intervention. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or involve the local police.
File a Complaint with the Healthcare Facility Regulation Division
The Healthcare Facility Regulation Division of the Georgia Department of Community Health licenses nursing homes in Georgia. When you file a complaint, it will trigger an investigation and potential consequences for the facility and staff.
If the investigation reveals violations or evidence of abuse, neglect, or inadequate care, there may be fines, required corrective action plans to address deficiencies, a license suspension or revocation, and even the potential for criminal referrals.
Contact the Ombudsman
The Georgia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program trains volunteers to advocate for residents in nursing homes and long-term care facilities. They investigate complaints, work to resolve issues, and ensure residents’ rights are protected.
In cases of abuse or neglect, ombudsmen can involve relevant authorities, such as law enforcement or the Department of Human Services. The program’s goal is to enhance the quality of care, address disputes, and inform residents and families about their rights.
Inform the Nursing Home Administrator
The administrator is a mandatory reporter and must act when a claim of suspected abuse comes to their attention. They may lead an internal investigation, work with law enforcement to identify suspects, and develop a plan to eliminate the issue and prevent it from happening again.
Unfortunately, it’s also possible that the administrator is part of the problem and responsible for a toxic culture that enables abusive behaviors. Never rely solely on the facility itself as your resource for reporting suspected nursing home abuse in Georgia.
Talk to an Elder Law Attorney
Involving an attorney from the beginning can help you make decisions and choose the best path for stopping abuse. Your report should bring an end to the issues and ensure that the people responsible suffer the consequences of their actions.
If your loved one is a victim, you’re probably going to feel a great deal of relief when justice is served. However, that doesn’t help you recover the expenses you’ve incurred because of the abuse, which may have included medical care and the cost of moving to a new facility.
Your loved one may also be entitled to pain and suffering due to the ordeal. A skilled attorney can hold the facility accountable civilly, not just criminally. We can advocate for your loved one, stand up for their rights, and work to get them the compensation they deserve.
Take Action When You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse
You should report suspected nursing home abuse in Georgia to the Division of Aging Services and the Georgia Department of Community Health. You can also report it to the Ombudsman to ensure residents’ rights are protected and inform the administrator.
It’s a good idea to keep a record of the steps you took and notes about the abuse. It’s also wise to consult with an elder law attorney to make sure you’re on the right track and to take civil action for you or your loved one if needed.
At Schenk Nursing Home Abuse Law, we’re ready to help. Call today for a free consultation and tell us what’s happening.
