Florida Nursing Home Residents Bill of Rights

FLORIDA STATUTE: 400.022

Nursing home facilities shall adopt and make public a statement of the rights and responsibilities of the residents and shall treat such residents in accordance with the provisions of that statement. Each resident shall have the right to:

• Civil and religious liberties.

• Private and uncensored communication.

• Visitation by any individual providing health, social, legal, or other services and the right to deny or withdraw consent at any time.

• Present grievances and recommend changes in the policies and services free from restraint, interference, coercion, discrimination, or reprisal.

• Organize and participate in resident groups.

• Participate in social, religious, and community activities.

• Examine results of recent facility inspections by federal and state agencies including the plan of correction if applicable.

• Manage his/her own financial affairs.

• Refuse medication and treatment and to know the consequences.

• Receive adequate and appropriate health care, protective and support services.

• Privacy.

• Be informed of medical condition and proposed treatment and be allowed participation in planning.

• Be treated courteously, fairly, and with the fullest measure of dignity.

• Be free from mental and physical abuse, corporal punishment, extended involuntary seclusion, and from chemical restraints.

• Be transferred or discharged only for medical reasons, the welfare of other residents or for nonpayment of bill.

• Receive a thirty (30) day notice of discharge or relocation, and challenge such notice.

• Choose physician and pharmacy.

• Retain and use personal clothing and possessions.

• Copies of rules and regulations of the facility.

• Notification prior to room change.

• Information concerning room reservation policy for hospitalization.