In several states 1 of every 2 nursing homes is cited for harm and risk for death. Promised in 1998, they are not being enforced. Nursing home owners admit that they cannot keep nursing homes safe, they blame the reimbursement rate, but we see the lack of supervision as the main reason for neglect and abuse. Surveillance cameras will be a help.
Fines are too low and too often negotiated or dropped.
There is no incentive to provide good care Too few lawsuits to make a difference. Too few plaintiff attorneys are well trained in NH litigation. Badly needed protective legislation with teeth, simply cannot pass. Sexual Abuse of Nursing Home Residents Journal of Psychosocial Nursing Vol.