The Health Care Council of Illinois called a video conference call with reporters and warned that outbreaks in homes are likely worse than has been reported and the numbers will grow more dire. Citadel Healthcare CEO Jonathan Aaron said the state’s expanded testing efforts at nursing homes were “belated and off to a slow start” and that the state needs “coordinated widespread testing” and that “a comprehensive plan for COVID-19 in nursing homes is long overdue.”
Illinois nursing home workers have complained that their managers do not provide adequate gear and training and do not provide information on coronavirus outbreaks. Aaron also said pre-shift temperature screening for nursing home employees is not effective because it wouldn’t stop an asymptomatic worker from spreading the virus.
If a nursing home does not take the recommended steps to protect their residents from coronavirus, they may be guilty of nursing home negligence. Under Illinois law, residents who become injured or die from coronavirus have a legal right to bring a lawsuit against a negligent nursing home. If you suspect a loved one in a nursing home has been neglected or abused, you should act immediately to protect them:
• Determine if they should immediately be removed from the nursing home where they are living.
• Report the facility to the state of Illinois Department of Public Health at 1-800-252-4343.
• Contact an elder law attorney to protect the person’s rights, your rights and seek compensation for the abuse or neglect.
Do you have questions about nursing home negligence or elder law in Illinois? Our experienced elder law attorneys in Lombard Illinois understand applicable laws and advise you on the best options to protect an elderly or disabled person. Contact the Estate & Probate Legal Group at (630) 800-0112.
