Bill Would Speed Up California Nursing Home Complaint Investigations

Laura Blatt

Contributor

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Many California consumer groups are supporting AB 399, a state bill that would require nursing home complaint investigations to be completed within 40 days, and ensure that those who file the complaints receive a written summary of the findings. The proposed legislation would also give the complainant 15 business days, rather than the current 5 business days, in which to request an informal conference after the investigation is completed.

Unfortunately, the California nursing home complaint system has been riddled with problems. Too often, there are lengthy delays in investigating and resolving complaints. AB 399 would help overcome these difficulties, according to its sponsors, California Advocated for Nursing Home Reform and Bet Tzedek.

The California Legislative web site contains a copy of AB 399 (see http://leginfo.ca.gov/bilinfo.html ). The bill has passed the Assembly, and received the approval of the Senate health committee and should now go before the full Senate for a vote.