An unfortunately common practice, altering nursing home records is a way facilities try to cover their tracks after nursing home neglect or abuse charges surface. Even when families of a victim of neglect are sure that mistakes were made, available proof is what counts in court.
When an elder neglect or abuse case goes to trial, the discovery process before the trial (which is where the parties exchange information), is how documents get transferred—patient records, billing statements—and when depositions are taken (these are recorded interviews on what happened). But when the accused party must supply the records, it’s easy for them to change them beforehand. If a nursing home resident was supposed to receive medication on a set schedule but did not, the staff can easily change the medical charts later to indicate that the medication was given. When faced with legal action and financial consequences, some owners and operators decide on this dishonest practice.
Experienced attorneys have techniques to uncover this sort of fraud. Frequently, discovering the coverup involves comparing many different forms of documentation with each other to identify possible discrepancies. Employee records (determining who was working what shifts—altered records are often wrong here) and billing records (matching the service actually provided on the medical chart vs. what was billed) are two sources for attorneys to work with. Also, good lawyers understand documentation copying policies; every nursing home has its own documentation policy; records that are copies are discreetly marked as such.
More than 30% of nursing homes in the country experience some form of resident abuse. If you believe a loved one has been abused or neglected at a nursing home, contact Mike Agruss Law, at 312-224-4695 for a free consultation. Mike Agruss Law, represents victims of nursing home abuse and neglect throughout Illinois. We will handle your case quickly, advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you. This litigation strategy will provide you with the best possible compensation. Plus, Mike Agruss Law, does not get paid attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple.
Therefore, you have nothing to risk when you hire our firm—just the opportunity to seek justice. Protect your loved one’s rights by contacting us today.
