The care for our seniors is an equally important concern faced by many each year. Cases of neglect towards society are oldest and most vulnerable citizens are taken seriously by the law. Nursing home neglect cases often go unreported because most elders are less likely to complain. Many of these unreported cases only become known when the problem escalates to the patient’s death.
Despite the government’s efforts to crack down on unreliable and abusive service providers, cases are still rampant. Unfortunately for us taxpayers, it is our money that funds these almost sinister operations of abuse and neglect.
A nationwide study conducted in 2009 and released recently by the Department of Health and Human Services found that $5.1 billion in taxpayers’ monies was paid by Medicare to inadequate nursing homes that were not meeting the most basic of the national standards in caring for senior patients. The study also reported that one out of every three patients wound up in these shady nursing homes.
While Medicare is not purely to blame for the figures, it does raise questions about who it hands money to and how the system actually implements existing laws on the matter. Elderly patients in need of daily supervision from nurses and therapists are typically sent to caregiver facilities. These facilities are later reimbursed for services provided through Medicare.
Law requires nursing homes to draft specific care plans for each of their patients. Such will make staff and concerned medical professionals to be on the same page in providing the most accurate and highest level of medical care for each patient.
Although most cases reported were regarding poor services, other homes are criticized for over-servicing because it can get reimbursed more from the government. The report recommends that any payments should be tied up to the quality of services provided and that concerned agencies strengthen regulations.
About The Author
Victor Dela Casa is a Filipino-Canadian who spent over a decade working as a business professional in Canada. Worked in IT, finance, marketing, international trade, public service, project management and the maritime industry. Degree in Economics from the University of the Philippines and Honours Diploma from Eastern College. Currently based in the Philippines and working as a professional writer for a multi-national business processes firm.
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