Over the past several years, many nursing homes are attempting to escape liability for injuries or neglect by completely dropping their insurance coverage. For instance, information provided to the Oklahoma Center for Consumer & Patient Safety, shows that over 20 percent of the beds in Oklahoma reside in nursing homes that refuse to carry medical insurance. A state study conducted last year speculates the number may be even higher – closer to 65 percent.
This week, legislation was introduced by Senator Richard Lerblance that would require nursing homes to either carry medical liability insurance or prove that the home has sufficient funds to pay any damages if found responsible for injuries caused by abuse or neglect. There is also a push for the Health Department to investigate which homes are not carrying insurance so patients and families will be able to see the results and conditions of these facilities.
Many nursing homes blame their lack of medical liability insurance on poor funding from Medicare. Financial pressures have forced many facilities to choose – taking care of their residents or paying for liability insurance. If the legislation passes, the nursing homes will have to start providing proper insurance and care for their residents, allowing them to live in a safe, clean environment. Read more.