What to Watch for Before Signing A Nursing Home Contract in Clearwater
Placing a loved one in a nursing home is never an easy decision. Unfortunately, many families sign nursing home contracts without fully understanding the fine print, which can jeopardize your rights and the safety of your loved one while leading to unexpected costs.
Our experienced Clearwater elder law attorney provides trusted, local legal guidance to families, helping them review and negotiate nursing home contracts. Find out what to watch for before signing.
Common Provisions in Pinellas County Nursing Home Contracts
Florida Health Finder lists nearly 100 nursing homes operating in and around Pinellas County. These facilities provide the care and attention our loved ones need as they get older, but shop around and be cautious before signing any contracts.
Nursing home contracts are often long and complex, filled with legal jargon that makes it hard for families to understand their rights and obligations. As a result, families may unknowingly agree to unfair terms or hidden fees. To protect yourself, carefully review common nursing home contract provisions, such as:
- Hidden fees, such as for laundry, medical supplies, or rehabilitation;
- Discharge and eviction policies, which may not comply with Florida law;
- Responsible party clauses, in which families can be held personally responsible for nursing home costs;
- Arbitration clauses, which can limit a family’s legal options.
- Limited liability clauses, which attempt to waive the facility’s responsibility for neglect or medical malpractice.
Being familiar with these terms plays a vital role in protecting yourself and your loved one while ensuring fair treatment in a Clearwater nursing home.
Take These Steps Before Signing a Clearwater Nursing Home Contract
Taking the time to carefully review and negotiate nursing home contracts can help avoid problems in the future. Take the following steps before signing:
- Request a fee breakdown: Ask for a list of all potential costs beyond the base rate.
- Clarify payment responsibilities: Ensure that only the resident (or their estate) is responsible for costs.
- Check for Medicaid compliance: Confirm the nursing home accepts Medicaid and follows all eligibility guidelines.
- Understand the discharge policy: Ensure the facility follows proper procedures before discharging a resident.
- Get legal help: Our Clearwater elder law attorney can review the contract, identify problematic clauses, and negotiate fairer terms.
Reach Out To Our Clearwater Elder Law Attorney Today
Nursing home contracts are legally binding. Unfortunately, signing one without fully understanding all of the terms can lead to serious financial and legal consequences later on. If you are considering a nursing home in Florida for your loved one, our Clearwater elder law attorney can review and negotiate the contract to protect your family’s rights.
With over 40 years of experience, attorney William Rambaum is Board-certified by the Florida Bar and the National Elder Law Foundation. He helps families navigate long-term care planning, Medicaid eligibility, nursing home agreements, and other vital issues impacting older adults.
Do not sign a nursing home contract without getting legal guidance. Reach out and call or contact our office online today to schedule a consultation.
Source:
quality.healthfinder.fl.gov/Facility-Provider/Nursing-Home?&type=0
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0400/0400.html
