You Have Rights

Though you may feel you’re at the mercy of a nursing home, residents have certain rights and protections under the law. Nursing homes must give all new residents a copy. Here’s a partial listing:

• The right to be treated with dignity and respect
• The right to be informed in writing about services and fees before you enter the nursing home
• The right to manage your own money or to choose someone else you trust to do this for you
• The right to privacy and to keep and use your personal belongings and property as long as it doesn't interfere with the rights, health, or safety of others
• The right to be informed about your medical condition and medications  and to see your own doctor
• The right to refuse medications and treatments
• The right to have a choice over your schedule (for example, when you get up and go to sleep), your activities, and other preferences that are important to you
• The right to an environment more like a home that maximizes your comfort and provides you with assistance to be as independent as possible

If you have questions specific to your state’s laws, benefits, or licensing, CMS has a list of agencies that can help, as well as links to state Web sites. At the main Nursing Home Compare site, click on “Resources” (on the right), the “Contacts” tab, and then “State Websites,” which offers links to every state.

Though you may have already determined that a nursing home is best for your situation, other long-term care options are available. See “If Nursing Homes Aren’t for You . . .” to learn more about alternatives to nursing homes.

Finally, if you have trouble finding your way around the Nursing Home Compare site, let CMS know. They’re asking for feedback, so email your comments to BetterCare@cms.hhs.gov.