Long-term care and rehabilitation providers face more legal challenges now than ever before. They must not only care for vulnerable patients but also comply with complex health care regulations and employment laws. When allegations of negligence or misconduct arise, the consequences for your facility can be profound. At our firm, we represent long-term care, skilled nursing facilities, and rehabilitation centers throughout Virginia. Let our team serve as your advocates and guide you through this sensitive time.
The Legal Landscape for Care Facilities
Facilities that provide extended care are subject to scrutiny from government regulators. Claims may come from patients or families who allege neglect or abuse. State and federal regulators also monitor compliance with strict standards related to staffing, care plans, and patient safety. Even a single complaint can trigger an investigation which may impact your licensure and certification.
Our attorneys understand the environment in which you operate. We stay current on state and federal regulations that impact your business. Our goal is to help clients respond swiftly to complaints, no matter their origin, whether from a patient, a regulatory agency, or even a whistleblower. Early legal intervention is a vital part of preventing allegations of wrongdoing from spiraling into a damaging claim for compensation.
Defending Against Negligence Allegations
Many lawsuits against long-term care, skilled nursing, and rehab providers involve claims of negligence. These may include alleged failures to prevent falls or protect patients from harm. It can be challenging to defend against these allegations even when the care was entirely appropriate, given the emotional pull an injured long-term care patient can have on a jury.
We investigate every aspect of the care that was provided. Our team works with independent medical professionals who can assess whether the facility meets the appropriate standard. We gather evidence in an effort to show that the care provided and plans in place at the time were adequate and implemented. We will develop expert testimony to highlight how an injury or illness was unrelated to any act or omission by your staff.
Responding to Government Investigations
A government inspection or compliance review can pose as much risk as a lawsuit, with fines or sanctions having a lasting effect on your operations. In some cases, facilities may be placed on exclusion lists or lose access to Medicaid funding. Avoiding these outcomes is critical to keeping the doors of your center open.
We can also help clients respond to survey findings or negotiate corrective action plans that preserve their ability to serve residents. When disputes arise, we can serve as your advocate throughout multiple levels of administrative hearings or appeals.
Protecting Staff and Management
Occasionally, individual staff members can be named in a lawsuit or complaint. Nurses, therapists, and administrators may find themselves under investigation for alleged misconduct. These allegations can impact careers even when the individual has done nothing wrong.
We represent both facilities and their employees. Our attorneys provide guidance during internal investigations, disciplinary hearings, and licensing board inquiries. Our team is focused on protecting professional credentials and preventing false allegations from gaining traction.
Reach Out to Satterwhite Taddeo Today
The work of long-term care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation providers is demanding. No one in this field should face the risk of litigation or personal financial consequences after doing their best to provide high-level care. Reach out today to discuss how we can mount a defense on behalf of your long-term care, skilled nursing, or rehabilitation center.