In a striking move at the start of May, Gov. Doug Ducey struck down routine legislation reauthorizing the board that oversaw licensing and certification of nursing home and assisted living facility managers.
The move essentially shuts down Arizona’s Board of Examiners of Nursing Care Institution Administrators and Assisted Living Facility Managers.
He said he wants to move the function to the Arizona Dept. of Health Services in response to significant calls for accountability and new oversight of these loosely-sanctioned caretakers. Among other issues, the most prominent call-out was for the board giving a license to a convicted felon (the home that person was managing later had a major coronavirus outbreak).
Other issues include sexual assaults and other serious crimes involving nursing home staff.
Arizona Nursing Home Issues
The move makes sense as nursing homes continue to be stretched thin by fallout from the pandemic, along with a range of budgetary and staff issues that started well before last year. More than ever, our most elderly and fragile citizens are at risk of abuse, neglect, and more while living in an assisted care facility or nursing home.
What To Avoid in an Arizona Nursing Home
There are several factors, but don’t be immediately swayed by better pricing or more quality finishings. Cosmetic touches are sometimes merely that and don’t reflect the actual quality of care. Another red flag is noticing Slow or lackadaisical care of residents.
Additionally, what’s the temperature like in the facility? Is it too cold or too hot? We all know Arizona has a particularly hot climate, and the care center should be highly mindful that older citizens are much more sensitive to extreme sways in temperature in either direction.
While the fallout from Gov. Ducey’s decision remains to be seen, the responsibility of vigilance continues to weigh on the average citizen. Should you suspect malpractice in a nursing home (whether neglect, abuse, or otherwise), call the qualified and compassionate nursing home neglect law team at Rabb & Rabb, PLLC today at (520) 888-6740 to schedule a free consultation.
