Residents of nursing homes are sometimes under the impression that they have lost their constitutional rights and privileges when they move into a facility. They may feel as though they haven’t any choices, or say in the care that they receive. All residents have rights that are protected by the law. Even individuals that have been placed in a home under guardianship have rights. Now, because of Covid19 restrictions and regulations, residents may be even more confused about what rights they have. Residents in long term care facilities still have rights. Nothing has changed that.
The State of Oklahoma Long Term Care Ombudsman Program works to ensure that the rights of nursing home residents are protected. The Long Term Care Authority of Enid, Area Agency on Aging, Ombudsman Supervisors Julie Torson and David Huff assist residents in Garfield County, as well as Kingfisher, Blaine, Major, Alfalfa, Grant, Kay and Noble counties. They help individuals in Nursing Homes, Assisted Living and Residential Care Facilities to resolve any complaints or concerns they may have. They ensure these individuals are aware of their rights and make sure the facilities uphold the law and rights of these individuals.
The following is a partial list of residents’ rights in long term care facilities:
• Residents should be treated with dignity, courtesy and respect.
• Residents have the right to privacy when receiving care. Staff should knock before entering the room.
• Residents have the freedom to accept or refuse treatment. They should receive care in a timely manner and have requests addressed promptly.
• Residents should be able to choose a personal physician and/or pharmacy. They should have access to their medical records and be made aware of any changes. They have the right to participate in care plan meetings.
• Residents should be able to visit with guests privately. This includes electronic visits, outdoor visits and phone calls. Socially distant visits are required now because of Covid19.
• Residents have the right to participate in activities of their choice. When residents are unable to attend group activities, they should receive accommodating activities, on an individual basis.
• Residents have the right to vote and receive mail unopened.
• Residents have the right to make personal choices including food and clothing choices.
• They should be able keep and use personal possessions and be able to have a locked space for valuables.
• Residents have the right to be free from verbal, sexual, physical and mental abuse. They should be free from corporal punishment, involuntary seclusion and the use of restraints.
Julie Torson and David Huff can be
reached at Long Term Care Authority of Enid, Area Agency on Aging at
580-237-2236. Their office is located at 202 W. Broadway, Suite A, Enid,
OK 73701. If you or a loved one live in a Long Term Care Facility and
have questions about Residents’ Rights, please contact your Ombudsman.
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