When you made the choice to put a loved one in a nursing home, you never expected them to become a victim of abuse. If you find yourself in this terrible situation, never forget that you have rights. 

The federal standards of care for patients state that the patient’s family also has rights. One of the most important is the right to form regular private meetings of a group. These meetings are also known as family councils. Family councils allow you to advocate for your loved one’s best interests. 

Any nursing home facility that receives funds from Medicare, and Medicaid, must provide a space for family councils. The facility must also cooperate with the council, and respond to any concerns the council may have. 

A nursing home staff member must be assigned to a family council as an advisor, but can only access a council meeting by invitation.

If you have a question about your rights in a nursing home abuse, or neglect, case, call Hupy and Abraham immediately at 800-800-5678.