Rights of Residents —
An array of statutory rights given by federal and state "residents
rights" legislation to nursing home residents. The minimum resident rights
specified by federal law include the following.
- Be treated with respect
- Participate in activities
- Be free from discrimination
- Be free from abuse and neglect
- Be free from restraints
- Make complaints
- Get proper medical care
- Have your representative notified
- Get information on services and fees
- Manage your money
- Get proper privacy, property, and living arrangements
- Spend time with visitors
- Get social services
- Leave the nursing home
- Have protection against unfair transfer or discharge
- Form or participate in resident groups
- Have your family and friends involved
These statutes may provide statutory penalties for violations. Some of the
broader long-term care (LTC) facility liability policies available in
today's market include a specific grant of coverage for violations of a
"rights of residents" law, without which coverage may be in
doubt.