Advocacy Group Reveals Deplorable Treatment in Some CA Nursing Homes

State-government inspections have discovered instances of deplorable treatment in some California nursing homes, yet citations are lacking, says the advocacy group California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform.

The group published government reports on their website that “highlighted health and safety violations at 14 nursing homes statewide,” according to Southern California Public Radio.

The violations span from January 2010 to March of 2012 and include residents left lying for hours in their own feces and urine; untreated bedsores; a resident with a maggot-infested wound; dirty facilities, and fraudulent medical billing.

… A spokeswoman for the Attorney General’s office says the findings from the investigation, called Operation Guardian, have been turned over to the Department of Public Health for further investigation and possible enforcement actions.

But patient advocates say the Department of Public Health has already failed to do its job — with only one citation issued so far in cases that are up to two years old.

Last year, news broke of bad conditions in some Florida assisted living facilities as well, and the state government was accused of turning a blind eye.

For tips on what to look for when you’re evaluating nursing homes, click here. You can read reviews written by clients of nursing homes you’re considering here.