Residents of long-term care facilities have the right to dignity, respect, and freedom from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and retaliation. If you feel you or a loved one has not received the care you/they are due, there are multiple avenues to address these concerns.
If you have discussed the issue with facility staff and there has not been resolution, the first step is to contact the facility's ombudsman. These volunteers represent you via the state office of Elder Affairs and do NOT work for the facility. They are advocates to help resolve both minor and major concerns. If egregious enough, they will open a case and file a complaint with the Agency for Health Care Administration, the state's regulatory arm.
Even if the ombudsman does file a complaint, it doesn't negate your ability to do so also. You know the squeaky wheel adage.
AHCA inspects and investigates complaints only for organization they regulate.
If you want to file a complaint, first check to see if it is on their list. If it is, you can either call (888) 419-3456 or file an online complaint here.
First select either the type of facility or the county where the facility is located. Then you will be able to type in the facility's name. Click on it and begin filling in the information. It does not allow you to upload pictures. However, you can upload documents that contain pictures. Be sure to explain what each picture is showing.
It is important to provide as much detail as possible because they will determine the need to open a case based on the information given. If you believe the issue also affects other residents, state that as well. Encourage others affected to file a complaint. Again, squeaky wheel.
"Florida law requires the reporting of known or suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation, or self-neglect of vulnerable adults
(elderly or disabled)."
If you or a loved one is in imminent danger, call 911 immediately. First responders will know who to contact if there is suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation. For other instances, call 800-96-ABUSE (800-962-2873) or file a form online.
APS is available 24/7, so no matter what time you discover suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation, do not wait.
Not sure what constitutes abuse, neglect, or exploitation, visit this link for more information.
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