How to File a Complaint Against an Alabama Nursing Home
Stand up for your loved one’s legal rights
Nursing homes are responsible for the safety and well-being of the vulnerable people in their care. When that contract is broken, they need to be investigated and held accountable. Reporting suspected abuse is not only a step toward accountability for your loved one, but also helps to prevent other families from enduring similar pain.
Unfortunately, too many instances of nursing home abuse go unreported, often because of fear of retaliation. In Alabama, you have the right to file a complaint anonymously.
State agencies that handle nursing home complaints
The Alabama Department of Public Health, Bureau of Health Provider Standards handles complaints regarding nursing home care in Alabama. To file a complaint, you can:
- Fill out the Nursing Home Complaint Form located on the Alabama DPH website. To complete this form, you will need the name and address of the facility, the resident’s name, and as much information as possible about the complaint itself. This form allows you to make a report anonymously, but you do have to state your relationship to the victim.
- Email your complaint to DPH using the email address provided on their website.
- Write a letter of complaint to DPH at the mailing address provided on their website.
You can also file a complaint with the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, which investigates and resolves complaints about long-term care facilities, as well as others who are in a position to interfere with the welfare of a nursing home resident. Again, conversations with the ombudsman are kept anonymous and confidential.
Finally, if you have reason to believe that your loved one is a victim of a crime, you can file a report with the local police department in the jurisdiction where the nursing home is located.
Discuss your legal rights and options with an experienced nursing home abuse lawyer
Reporting nursing home abuse to government agencies is important, but keep in mind that those agencies are primarily concerned with addressing violations and disciplining nursing homes. You also have recourse through the civil justice system, and pursuing those rights is important, too. Recovering financial compensation from a negligent nursing home can make a huge difference in your loved one’s and your family’s quality of life. It also sends a strong message by holding the nursing home accountable.
That’s why, in addition to reporting the abuse to state agencies, you need to discuss your legal rights with an experienced nursing home abuse attorney. Naturally, our conversation is confidential, and there’s no pressure or obligation to hire us - just answers about your legal options. Schedule your free consultation with Shuttlesworth Law Firm, P.C. today.