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Nursing home neglect and abuse is a growing problem, reaching almost epidemic proportions. The numbers of cases involving nursing home neglect continue to rise, and the numbers of people entering nursing homes grows annually.
Abuse and neglect can be difficult to recognize and is often covered up by nursing home staff.
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According to a 1997 article in Time magazine, it is estimated that
as many as 35,000 Americans may be dying prematurely or in unnecessary pain each year. Nursing homes that receive federal funds are required to satisfy federal regulations that specify that residents receive a high quality of care. In 1987, Congress enacted legislation to reform nursing home regulations in an effort to curb nursing home abuse incidents. Specifically, the Nursing Home Reform Act states that a nursing home "must provide services and activities to attain or maintain the highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each resident in accordance with a written plan of care".
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If one of your family members has been the victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, there are many different remedies for you to pursue. Some actions are more effective than others, and the remedy you choose will depend upon the severity of the neglect or abuse involved. Before consulting with an attorney, it is important that you familiarize yourself with local and federal requirements for nursing homes, and get a general idea of the abuse or neglect involved. It is also important to have an understanding of the laws as they pertain to your state. |
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If you or a family member has been involved in an incident of nursing home abuse or neglect, it is best to contact a lawyer specializing in nursing home neglect cases immediately to find out your legal rights. A lawyer with nursing home abuse expertise can asses your case to find out whether or not it is actionable. To expedite the process of filing a lawsuit, it is advisable to present your lawyer with as much information about your situation as possible. Choose from a lawyer by state at left to begin your search. Simply fill out a form for a lawyer in your area, and a qualified professional will contact you shortly.
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