Florida nursing home alert: The Kaiser Family Foundation recently issued a report that finds that nearly 40% of all nursing home residents are in nursing home facilities that have received very poor ratings. Nursing homes, including those located in Sarasota, Charlotte and Manatee Counties, Florida are subject to annual and complaint investigation surveys conducted by the Florida Agency for Healthcare Administration. These survey results, among other things, provide data on which the nursing home is rated using a five star scale. In search for a nursing home, many people rely on CMS’ Five Star Quality Rating System. Consumers, however, should not place too much faith in this rating system. Why?
Much of the information that is used to calculate the nursing home’s rating under the five star system is self-reported by the nursing home corporation and not audited by the government. Of course, very low star ratings are a red flag for concern. As an experienced Venice nursing home abuse lawyer, I can confirm that a persistent low rating is a sure sign of trouble and could serve to increase the risk that a nursing home or assisted living facility resident will suffer abuse or neglect during their stay.
Prior to placing a loved one in any nursing home or assisted living facility, take a look at past complaints and annual inspections at www.floridahealthfinder.gov. Do not rely on inspections alone. Visit the facility and try to determine whether it appears adequately staffed and clean. And stay tuned for other Florida nursing home alerts.
