The dignity and well-being of those who reside in nursing homes are of paramount importance. In Missouri, nursing home residents are entitled to a set of rights designed to ensure their security and safety, respect, and quality of life. These rights are not just legal formalities; they are fundamental assurances that residents will receive proper care, have their voices heard, and be treated with the dignity they deserve. From the right to privacy and personal autonomy to protections against abuse and neglect, understanding these rights is crucial for residents and families, as it empowers them to demand the standard of care and respect to which every individual is entitled.
Under Missouri legislation, every nursing home resident is endowed with a Bill of Rights. These legal safeguards are established to deter the improper treatment, abuse, and neglect of elders dependent on the care provided by others. If your loved one has suffered due to nursing home abuse, neglect, or mistreatment, speak with the lawyers of Goza & Honnold to understand your legal options to seek compensation for damages.
7 Rights of Nursing Home Residents in Missouri
Nursing home residents have the following rights in Missouri:
1. Right to Respectful Treatment
The right to respectful treatment guarantees that every nursing home resident is treated with honor and respect by the facility and its staff. This includes the right to receive quality care, safeguarding of personal belongings, and the use of personal items as feasible. Nursing homes are legally bound to enhance or at least preserve the quality of life of their residents by treating them with kindness and regard.
2. Protection Against Abuse and Neglect
A core right for residents is protection against all forms of abuse, neglect, exploitation, unnecessary physical restraints, mistreatment, intimidation, and reprisal. Residents must be shielded from physical, psychological, emotional, sexual, and financial harm, including unwarranted chemical or physical restraints, unless medically required as prescribed by a doctor or consented by the resident.
3. Participation in Care Decisions
Residents possess the legal authority to be involved in decisions regarding their care, encompassing medical and everyday care decisions. They are entitled to select their healthcare providers, medical treatments, daily activities, and personal care plans, in addition to appointing a chosen representative to act on their behalf. The right to refuse or stop treatment is also legally supported.
4. Comprehensive Information Rights
It is unlawful for a nursing home or its staff to withhold information from a resident about their care, health status, treatments, or rights. Residents are entitled to complete disclosure about treatment options and their potential risks and benefits, the facility’s rules and policies, any changes in care or health condition, and updates regarding room or roommate changes.
5. Autonomy Over Financial Matters
Residents maintain control over their financial matters upon entering a nursing home. They have the right to manage their finances independently, and no one is permitted to access or use the resident’s funds without explicit written consent. Residents are also entitled to receive regular financial statements every quarter.
6. Freedom to Receive or Decline Visitors
Residents have the freedom to welcome or reject visitors according to their preference, ensuring access to contacts, services, and activities both within and outside the nursing facility. They also have the right to engage in social, religious, or community events as desired.
7. Privacy Rights
Residents’ right to privacy extends to their personal, medical, and financial affairs. Nursing homes are prohibited from monitoring or restricting a resident’s communications, including phone calls, visitor interactions, mail, and access to their medical and personal records. Moreover, residents should have the opportunity to have private conversations with anyone they choose without restriction.
Speak With the Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers of Goza & Honnold Today
If you suspect that a loved one’s rights have been violated in a nursing home in Missouri, it’s crucial to act swiftly to protect their rights and well-being. The experienced lawyers of Goza & Honnold have focused knowledge in nursing home abuse claims and help you navigate the legal process, from investigating the incident to advocating for justice and compensation. We work to hold responsible parties accountable, ensuring that your loved one receives the respect, care, and dignity they deserve.
Call our office today for a free consultation at (913) 451-3433 or fill out our contact form.