Placing a loved one in a nursing home is never an easy decision.
Families trust these facilities to provide quality care, ensuring their elderly relatives live with dignity, comfort, and safety.
Unfortunately, that trust is sometimes broken. Reports of nursing home abuse and neglect are more common than many realize, leaving vulnerable seniors in distressing and even dangerous situations.
The Department of Health and Human Services’ Office reported that nursing home abuse frequently goes unreported in the United States. Individuals 60 years or older are more vulnerable to being abused, neglected, or exploited.
Commonly, this occurs in long-term nursing home facilities. If you or a loved one is suffering from abuse in the care of a nursing home or assisted living facility, filing a report can be crucial to your case.
Let us help you understand how to report nursing home abuse in Missouri and other similar issues.
How to Report Elder Abuse
First, call 911 if there is an immediate, life-threatening danger to the individual.
For non-emergency situations, you can contact Missouri’s Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 800-392-0210.
Anyone who believes that elder abuse is occurring can make a complaint. However, healthcare professionals, social workers, and other professionals are required to report any cases of suspected elder abuse.
When filing an abuse report, be prepared to provide the following information:
The name, phone number, age, gender, and condition of the victim;
The name, address, and phone number of the facility where the abuse is at;
The abuser’s name, phone number, and any other relevant information about them;
Why you suspect there is abuse, neglect, or exploitation;
Your contact information and relationship to the victim if you are reporting on behalf of another individual; and
Any other relevant information that will be useful for the investigation.
After a report is made, the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) will look into the situation and assign investigators to the case. In cases of long-term facility complaints, the department’s Division of Regulation and Licensure staff will conduct the investigation. Within 24 hours, a report or claim will be initiated. If the individual is competent, they have the right to refuse all services and interventions. The elderly must consent to any decisions regarding their care.
How to Report Nursing Home Abuse in Missouri
Understanding how to report nursing home abuse in Missouri is crucial for protecting vulnerable seniors.
Missouri law takes allegations of nursing home abuse seriously, and there are multiple ways to report incidents beyond just calling the hotline. Acting quickly can prevent further harm and ensure that the victim receives appropriate care.
You can also file a complaint with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services online by visiting their website and filling out the complaint form. If the abuse involves Medicaid-funded care, the Missouri Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) investigates claims of fraud and abuse within healthcare facilities. Additionally, you can contact the Missouri Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, which serves as an advocate for nursing home residents, helping them resolve complaints and concerns.
Missouri law, under RSMo Section 198.070, requires mandated reporters, including physicians, nurses, and facility employees, to report suspected abuse within a reasonable timeframe. Failure to report known abuse can result in legal penalties
Who Do You Report Abuse to in a Nursing Home?
Knowing who to report abuse to in a nursing home is essential.
Prompt reporting can make a significant difference in stopping ongoing abuse and holding responsible parties accountable. The following organizations can be contacted:
- Missouri Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline—800-392-0210 (available 7 a.m. to midnight),
- Local law enforcement—call 911 if there is an immediate risk to the victim,
- Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services—submit an online complaint,
- Missouri Medicaid Fraud Control Unit—investigates fraud and abuse involving Medicaid-funded facilities,
- Missouri Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program—advocates for residents of nursing homes, and
- Missouri attorney general’s office—handles cases of criminal abuse and fraud
Taking action by reporting to the appropriate authority helps ensure that investigations are initiated and victims receive protection.
How to Report Nursing Home Neglect in Missouri
Neglect is another serious form of mistreatment in nursing homes, often leading to malnutrition, bedsores, infections, and declining health. If you notice signs of neglect, such as poor hygiene, medication mismanagement, or dehydration, it is crucial to act quickly.
To report nursing home neglect in Missouri, follow these steps:
- Document evidence, including photos of injuries, unsanitary conditions, and medical records;
- Speak to the nursing home administration and request an internal investigation;
- Report the neglect to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services through their hotline or website;
- Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman to advocate on behalf of your loved one; and
- If necessary, seek legal counsel to explore potential claims for damages.
Prompt action can prevent further harm and ensure that facilities are held accountable for their negligence.
How Long Do You Have to Report Abuse in a Nursing Home?
One of the most common questions families ask is, How long do you have to report abuse in a nursing home? While Missouri law does not impose a strict deadline for reporting abuse to authorities, there are time limits if you wish to pursue legal action.
Under RSMo Section 516.120, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, including nursing home abuse cases, is five years from the date of the injury or discovery of harm. However, for wrongful death claims resulting from abuse or neglect, families have only three years to file a lawsuit.
Given these deadlines, it is important to act quickly if you suspect abuse.
What Evidence Do You Need to Prove Nursing Home Abuse?
It is important to understand how to report nursing home abuse in Missouri, but If you plan to report nursing home abuse or pursue legal action, gathering strong evidence is crucial. Essential forms of evidence include:
- Medical records—documentation of injuries, malnutrition, dehydration, or worsening health conditions;
- Photographic and video evidence—images of visible injuries, poor living conditions, or signs of neglect;
- Eyewitness testimonies—statements from staff members, other residents, or visitors who have witnessed the abuse;
- Communication logs—emails, text messages, or written complaints to the facility that document concerns; and
- Financial records—evidence of financial exploitation, such as unauthorized transactions or missing funds.
A well-documented case strengthens your complaint and helps authorities or legal professionals take swift action.
Take Legal Action
Finding out your loved one is the victim of nursing home abuse can be heartbreaking. A nursing home is supposed to provide care for those who need it the most. The elderly in nursing homes are less likely to be albe to protect their interests and care for themselves.
At Dempsey Kingsland Osteen, our attorneys hold nursing home facilities accountable for any neglect or abuse they have caused. With our extensive experience, our Kansas City attorneys will ensure your loved one receives proper compensation for their pain and suffering.
In many cases, nursing home abuse claims can result in compensation for:
- Medical expenses related to injuries,
- Pain and suffering,
- Emotional distress, and
- Punitive damages to punish negligent facilities.
Call (816) 484-3776 if you believe the care your loved one received in a nursing home caused an injury or decline in health.
Resources:
- Missouri Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program – link
- Abuse of residents, RSMo Section 198.070 – link
- Missouri Attorney General’s Office – link
The legal team at Dempsey Kingsland Osteen works to ensure that the injured are fully compensated for their lasting injuries from medical malpractice or other negligence. We push for comprehensive damages that anticipate the long-term needs of our clients, rather than taking a quick settlement out of convenience.
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