All of the states in the Midwest have their own set of regulations and guidelines for standard of care within nursing homes in these states. All of the states have the best interest of the patients in mind and want to do everything possible to promote overall health and wellness. The specific laws are different between the states.
The following are some examples of the different laws in the Midwestern states. They also contain information on what department to contact to learn more.
Illinois
The Nursing Home Care Act in Illinois seeks to ensure that all residents of these facilities have certain rights. One of the most important of these rights is freedom from abuse and neglect. The Act also talks about the responsibilities that the staff members have when it comes to caring for the residents and the facility. To learn more, you can contact the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Indiana
The Indiana State Department of Health is in charge of enforcing the nursing home laws in the state. Residents are required to have at least a 30-day notice in the event of changes to the services or rates at the facility. The patients are to have as much privacy and independence as possible based on their medical condition. They can help create their own plan of care as well.
Michigan
The laws in Michigan state that the residents of nursing homes will be free of chemical and physical restraints. The only exceptions to the law is when a physician orders them or when it is in an emergency to protect the resident or others. Residents will be able to receive a written copy of their medical records and are entitled to private communication with their doctors.
Ohio
The Ohio Department of Health is in charge of the laws regarding nursing home facilities. Inspections and onsite surveys from the Division of Quality Assurance help to make sure that the facilities are meeting the state and federal requirements. Residents must have a plan of care initiated within seven days of when they come to the facility.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin laws cover resident care, dental services, activities, social services, and more. Residents have the right to remain free from discrimination based on the source of their payment. Learn more from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
Kansas
Residents in Kansas are entitled to information about their care, medical state, and any changes that could affect their health. Residents also have the right to refuse treatment. The Kansas Department on Aging can offer more information on the nursing home laws in the state.
Minnesota
The state has a nursing home bill or rights for residents. The state requires that the federal and state rights are posted in the public areas of all nursing homes. When the residents come to the facility, they are to be informed of their legal rights, and all are to have courtesy and respect from the staff. Contact the Minnesota Department of Human Services for more information.
Missouri
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is responsible for the laws and regulations for nursing homes. They provide guidelines for the treatment and care of residents in these homes. Guidelines cover medication management, dietary guidelines, fire safety, and more. Residents have the option of participating in social activities.
Nebraska
The laws include education and training requirements for those who work in nursing homes in Nebraska. The laws also determine the staff members responsible for the various activities at the facility. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services can provide a full list of the nursing home laws.
North Dakota
The North Dakota Health Department has a Division of Health Facilities that will conduct the Medicaid and Medicare certification surveys for nursing home facilities in the state. They also register the CNAs, or certified nursing assistants, in the state.
South Dakota
The Board of Nursing Facility Administrators from the South Dakota Department of Health ensures the resident’s rights in nursing homes in the state. If there is a violation, the Board can take action against the facility. Residents and their loved ones who have a concern should contact the Board.