Nursing home residents across the nation face improper care and even abuse in long-term care facilities. These places are supposed to be safe environments, but they often end up as sources of distress. Some of the worst nursing homes in Illinois are located in Springfield and the surrounding area.
In this article, we will list some facilities with the worst nursing home ratings in the region and discuss your options to address concerns of abuse or neglect in an underperforming facility.
How Nursing Homes Are Rated in Springfield
The primary method for evaluating the quality of the worst Illinois nursing homes is with the rating system of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This government entity created a five-star rating system for all eligible nursing homes nationwide.
Each health care center receives an overall score based on ratings for health inspections, staffing, and quality measures. In the list below, every medical care facility has a one-star overall rating (please note that ratings are subject to change).
CMS also provides a convenient tool for comparing different nursing homes. Potential Illinois residents can use the nursing home comparison tool to look up star ratings, past health inspections, and violations. Facilities with low ratings often struggle to prevent neglect and abuse, so it is better to steer clear of these locations when searching for a care center.
List of the Worst Springfield Nursing Homes
This health care center has a one-star overall rating, but varying scores in other categories. It has been fined once in the last three years for a total of $66,000. During this time, 26 complaints against the nursing center have resulted in health citations. Some of the numerous violations mentioned in recent health inspection reports include:
- A failure to keep the nursing home area free of accident hazards;
- A failure to have a registered nurse on duty for eight hours a day;
- A failure to assist with daily living activities;
- A failure to provide enough food and fluids to maintain a patient’s health.
- Regency Care
CMS has issued a one-star rating for this Illinois-based facility and a consumer alert due to past abuse issues. Five federal fines totaling $149,288 have been issued in the past three years. The latest standard inspection, conducted in March 2024, listed ten health citations. For context, the national average is 9.6. Here are some deficiencies mentioned in some reports in recent years:
- A failure to protect residents from all types of abuse;
- A failure to have a registered nurse on duty for eight hours a day;
- A failure to provide appropriate pressure ulcer care;
- A failure to ensure the nursing home area is free of accident hazards.
- Arc at Sangamon Valley
This is another skilled nursing facility with a one-star rating and a consumer alert for resident abuse. Its health inspection score is also one star. Four federal fines have been issued against the rehab center, costing it $340,054. There have also been four Medicare payment denials during this period. Here are some specific violations that have been cited in recent reports:
- A failure to honor the resident’s right to a dignified existence;
- A failure to provide enough food and fluids to maintain a patient’s health;
- A failure to provide appropriate pressure ulcer care;
- A failure to provide appropriate treatment according to the resident’s care plan and preferences.
Common Deficiencies Found in Springfield, Illinois Worst Nursing Homes
Many symptoms of nursing home neglect and abuse are present in multiple facilities in Springfield, IL. These underperforming institutions often struggle to implement infection control protocols to protect residents from spreading diseases. Many facilities are understaffed or have poorly trained professionals caring for elderly patients. Medication errors and mismanagement frequently cause harm to residents. When patients are neglected, they may suffer from malnutrition, dehydration, pressure ulcers, and insufficient wound care.
Some staff members may commit financial abuse by stealing from residents or making unauthorized purchases. In the worst cases, residents are physically, emotionally, or sexually abused by other patients or staff members.
Signs of Abuse and Neglect in Nursing Homes
If your loved one is living in a nursing home, especially a Special Focus Facility, you can be the first line of defense against abuse and neglect. You should know the common signs of abuse so you can take action quickly.
Physical abuse may result in bruises, fractures, or unexplained injuries. Neglect can cause malnutrition, dehydration, bedsores, and poor hygiene. A person suffering from emotional abuse may exhibit symptoms like withdrawal, fear, agitation, or behavioral changes.
Evidence of financial exploitation could include missing possessions, strange credit card purchases, or changes to financial documents. Some signs that your loved one may be experiencing sexual abuse are unexplained STDs, pain, or bleeding.
Legal Rights of a Rehabilitation Center in Springfield
State and federal laws grant every nursing home resident certain rights. Some of the most significant laws regarding resident rights are the Federal Nursing Home Reform Act and the Illinois Nursing Home Care Act.
Every patient has the right to be protected from abuse and neglect. They also have the right to a dignified existence in a nursing facility. Residents have the right to participate in their care planning and refuse treatment.
What to Do if You Suspect Abuse or Neglect in a Springfield Nursing Home
If you suspect your family member is not receiving quality care in a Springfield facility, there are a few legal options that could solve the issue. Start by documenting your concerns with notes and collecting photos or videos to serve as evidence.
Bring this matter to the attention of the senior living administrative staff. If their solution is unsatisfactory, you can file an official complaint with the Illinois Department of Public Health. Contact the long-term care ombudsman program in the state to speak with a residential care advocate.
Lastly, you can consult an experienced nursing home abuse attorney to discuss the possibility of a lawsuit. This is a good option if you believe you are eligible for compensation for legal damages.
Filing a Lawsuit for Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect in Springfield
If you decide to file a lawsuit against the at-fault nursing facility, you should understand the process involved. First, you can hire a lawyer to investigate the claim and gather evidence to support your claim.
The attorney will help you determine who is liable for your suffering. Next, you will file a complaint in court. The discovery process involves all parties exchanging information and evidence. Finally, there will be a negotiation to find a fair settlement offer.
If this negotiation fails, the case may proceed to a civil trial. Working with an experienced law firm is key to filing a successful nursing home neglect lawsuit.
Contact a Springfield, IL Nursing Home Attorney for a Free Consultation
The team at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers has helped many victims of nursing home abuse secure compensation for legal damages. We know how to build a strong case and negotiate for a fair settlement while holding the care center accountable for its actions.
Call us today at 888-424-5757 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case.