How to Report Nursing Home Abuse in Philadelphia

Abuse in nursing homes is a serious issue, and reporting it is a critical step in protecting vulnerable residents. Here is a guide on how to make a report in Philadelphia, PA.

Filing a Report

In Philadelphia, several agencies handle nursing home abuse complaints. If you suspect mistreatment, taking immediate action is crucial to ensuring the safety of your loved one.

Contact the Nursing Home Administration  

The first step in addressing nursing home abuse is to report your concerns to the facility’s administrator or director of nursing. Nursing homes are legally obligated to investigate complaints and take appropriate corrective actions. However, if you suspect that staff members are involved in the abuse or believe the facility will not act in good faith, escalate the matter to external authorities.

Reach Out to Local Adult Protective Services (APS)  

Pennsylvania Adult Protective Services (APS) investigates allegations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable adults, including nursing home residents. If you suspect a case of elder abuse, you can file a report through the following:

• Phone: Pennsylvania APS Hotline: 1-800-490-8505
• Website: Pennsylvania Department of Human Services

Report to the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH)  

The Pennsylvania Department of Health oversees nursing home regulations and investigates complaints related to resident care, staffing, and facility conditions. You can file a complaint through:

• Phone: Pennsylvania Nursing Home Complaint Hotline: 1-800-254-5164
• Online: File a Complaint online with PA DOH

Notify the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP)  

The Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program advocates for nursing home residents, investigates complaints, and helps resolve disputes between residents and facilities. The ombudsman can intervene on behalf of victims and assist families in ensuring their loved ones receive appropriate care. In Philadelphia, you can contact the regional ombudsman at:

• Phone: 1-717-783-8975
• Website: Pennsylvania Ombudsman Program

Contact Local Law Enforcement  

If you believe a resident is in immediate danger or has been physically or sexually assaulted, call 911 or contact the Philadelphia Police Department directly.

• Philadelphia Police Department Non-Emergency Line: (215) 686-8477
• Emergency: Dial 911

How to Protect a Victim of Nursing Home Abuse

After reporting the abuse, take steps to ensure the victim’s safety and well-being:

• Request a Transfer: If the resident feels unsafe, consider moving them to another facility or a different unit within the nursing home.
• Increase Visitation: Frequent visits can help monitor the resident’s condition and ensure they are not experiencing further abuse or neglect.
• Advocate for Oversight: Encourage state health inspectors and ombudsmen to conduct follow-up inspections at the facility.

What To Do After Reporting Nursing Home Abuse

After filing a report, stay in touch with the investigating agency to monitor the case’s progress. If you believe the response is inadequate or the abuse continues, consider escalating the matter by filing complaints with multiple agencies or seeking legal assistance.

Gather Evidence

To support your report and ensure authorities take action, gather as much evidence as possible:

• Record Observations: Document any incidents, including dates, times, and descriptions of injuries or behavioral changes.
• Photograph Evidence: Take pictures of any visible injuries, poor living conditions, or safety hazards.
• Save Documentation: Collect relevant medical records, financial statements, and reports from the facility that may indicate abuse or neglect.
• Speak with Witnesses: Talk to other residents, staff members, or visitors who may have witnessed the abuse.

Thorough documentation strengthens your complaint and increases the likelihood of corrective action being taken.

Speak to a Philadelphia Nursing Home Abuse Attorney

Legal action can help prevent future abuse and ensure justice for the victim. Consulting an experienced Philadelphia Nursing Home Abuse Attorney can help you explore your legal options and seek appropriate remedies.