DOH Issues Guidance on Nursing Home Advocacy Services

On Nov. 16, 2020, the Department of Health (DOH) issued Dear Administrator Letter (DAL) 20-15 emphasizing the requirement that nursing homes provide residents with a detailed written discharge transfer notice, which includes specific information regarding a resident's rights in the process, including how to appeal a discharge/transfer determination. The information provided to the resident must also include a statement that the resident has the right to be represented by legal counsel, a relative, themselves, a friend, or a spokesman as well as the contact information of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman. 

Included with the DAL is a guide on Legal Services Agencies and Community Resources to help residents in the appeal of involuntary discharges from the nursing home.

Contact: Elliott Frost, efrost@leadingageny.org, 518-441-8761