On September 1st, 2023, The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed a rule that would create new staffing requirements for nursing homes under the Biden administration. This announcement came as nursing homes have long struggled with understaffing, falling short of providing adequate care for over a million vulnerable residents.
Majority of Nursing Homes Nationwide Would Need to Hire More Staff
According to a KFF study that examined more than 14,000 nursing home facilities caring for over 1.2 million Americans, less than 1 in 5 nursing homes nationwide meet the proposed number of nurses on staff at any given time. Additionally, more than 80 percent of nursing homes would be required to hire more staff to meet the CMS proposed requirements.
Alarmingly, the study also found that 90 percent of for-profit nursing home facilities and 60 percent of nonprofit or government-affiliated facilities did not meet the suggested staffing levels. This change would require the majority of nursing homes across the U.S. to hire more staff.
Nursing Home Facility Staffing Inadequacy Compounded by COVID-19 Pandemic
While the adequacy of staffing in nursing homes has been a long-standing issue, it was notably visible in the high mortality rate at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, intensifying its consequences. With this proposed rule, most nursing home facilities across the United States would be required to make a change. At Henson Fuerst, our nursing home neglect and abuse attorneys are here to hold them accountable.
NC Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Lawyers Who Advocate For Your Family
Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are meant to help ensure your loved ones receive the care they need. Unfortunately, understaffing and efforts by corporations to cut corners and make a profit could put your loved one’s health, safety, or even life at risk.
We’ve seen the devastating effects of nursing home abuse and neglect at Henson Fuerst firsthand. As trusted North Carolina nursing home abuse attorneys, we will fight for your family to receive the compensation and justice you deserve.
Do you suspect your loved one is neglected at their nursing home facility? Speak with us for free by submitting a form below or calling our office at 919-781-1107 for a free legal consultation.
