How do I file a complaint with a nursing home ombudsman?

Filing a complaint with a nursing home ombudsman in North Carolina is a fairly simple process. It begins with you, the complainant, calling the complaint hotline, either toll-free or local. The hotline is managed by the NC Division of Health Services Regulation (DHSR) and a representative will gather all of the necessary information from you and document your complaint. You will then be advised of the necessary steps to be taken in order to file the complaint with the ombudsman. Next, the DHSR representative will initiate a preliminary investigation. This will involve interviews with both the complainant and the nursing home staff, as well as a review of any records related to the complaint. If the investigation reveals that there is sufficient evidence to suggest a violation has occurred, the DHSR representative will refer the case to the ombudsman. Once the ombudsman is informed of the complaint, they will typically contact the complainant, the nursing home, and any other relevant parties. They will then investigate the complaint and make a recommendation regarding the outcome. If the ombudsman determines that there has been a violation, they will work with the complainant and other parties to find a resolution. In certain cases, the ombudsman may refer the complaint to the DHSR for further action. This typically occurs when the ombudsman believes that the violation is severe enough to warrant criminal or civil prosecution. If the complaint is referred, it is up to the DHSR to decide whether or not to pursue legal action against the nursing home.

How do I file a complaint with a nursing home ombudsman?

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