Kansas has implemented a variety of laws to protect residents of nursing homes.
Sending a loved one to a nursing home is never easy as there is always a concern about proper care and humane treatment. Kansas has set forth specific regulations and guidelines designed to protect the rights of elderly nursing home residents and ensure they receive the care and respect that is deserved. In Kansas, all nursing home residents have the right to dignified existence, self-determination and communication with individuals and services inside and outside of the nursing home. It is important these laws are understood by anyone who resides in a nursing care facility or knows someone who is in one.
The Right to Exercise Rights
All Kansas state nursing home residents must be allowed to exercise his individual rights as a citizen. These rights are to be carried out without any interference, coercion or reprisal from the staff working in the home. A resident also has the right to chose someone to represent and assert the rights when she is no longer able to do so. A resident who is not competent to exert these rights will have someone chosen by the courts. Before ever being admitted to the home a resident must be informed orally and in writing of all rights regarding his care and the rules and regulations of the nursing facility. Any changes to these guidelines and rules must be stated to the resident, in writing, 30 days prior to the change taking place.
Finances and Property
All residents in Kansas nursing homes have the right to manage their own finances and care for their property. Funds deposited by the resident to the home must be managed properly and include a quarterly written account of transactions and balance. All money must be placed into an interest bearing account at a state financial institution. All funds have to be transferred to a resident's estate or the courts within 40 days following her death.
Health Care Rights
All Kansas nursing home residents have the right to be informed about health care and medical treatments. Residents have the right to inspect all medical records and must receive the files within two days of notice. Residents are free to choose a doctor, participate in all medical decisions and treatments, choose a pharmacy and refuse treatment for a medical condition. All residents are able to check out of a nursing home whenever they want and without a physician's orders. Along with this, a resident has the right to administer his own medications and treatments.
Abuse
Kansas laws mandate that no nursing home resident endure verbal, mental, sexual or physical abuse. Nursing care facilities are not allowed to employ any staff member that has been convicted of abusing, neglecting or exploiting a resident in the past. This can be identified by checking the state nurse aide registry. All allegations of abuse are taken seriously and investigated thoroughly by the state department on aging.
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