How to File a Complaint Against a Georgia Nursing Home
Turn to our nursing home abuse and neglect lawyers for support and guidance
When a loved one lives in a nursing home, you expect them to be treated with care, respect, and dignity. Unfortunately, cases of neglect and abuse still happen, and families are left wondering what to do. In Georgia, there are clear procedures for reporting issues. But if you’re asking yourself how to report a nursing home for neglect or how to file a complaint against a nursing home in Georgia, you’re not alone.
Filing a complaint can feel overwhelming, but knowing the right steps makes the process easier. At Johnson Greer Law Group, we help families throughout Georgia understand their rights and hold negligent facilities accountable. If you’re unsure, have questions, or need help, our nursing home abuse lawyers will stand by your side and protect your loved one’s best interests.
Gather evidence before filing a complaint
If you believe your loved one is being neglected or abused in a nursing home, the first step is to gather as much evidence as possible. Strong evidence not only helps state agencies investigate the complaint but also protects your loved one if further legal action becomes necessary.
Documentation can show patterns of neglect or abuse that might otherwise be overlooked. It also provides proof when you file with the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) or other agencies.
Types of evidence:
- Photographs of injuries, poor living conditions, or unsanitary environments
- Medical records, prescriptions, or records of missed medications
- Written statements from staff, residents, or visitors
- Dates, times, and descriptions of concerning incidents
- Financial documents, if you suspect financial abuse or exploitation
Keeping a clear record of these details can make all the difference when you report a nursing home in Georgia.
Who to report nursing home neglect and abuse to in Georgia
There are several state agencies and services available to help. Each plays an important role in investigating complaints, protecting residents, and holding facilities accountable.
Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH)The Georgia Department of Community Health is the main state agency responsible for regulating nursing homes. Through its Healthcare Facility Regulation (HFR) division, the DCH investigates Department of Health nursing home complaints related to abuse, neglect, and unsafe conditions. They also monitor compliance with state and federal laws governing nursing home care. Filing a complaint with the DCH can trigger a formal inspection of the facility and lead to corrective actions or penalties against the nursing home.
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
Georgia’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program exists specifically to advocate for nursing home residents and their families. Ombudsmen are trained professionals who can investigate concerns, mediate disputes between families and facilities, and educate residents about their rights. Unlike regulatory agencies, ombudsmen often work directly with residents to improve their quality of life. While they don’t enforce laws, they can help resolve issues quickly and ensure your loved one’s voice is heard.
Adult Protective Services (APS) – Georgia Department of Human Services Division of Aging Services
Adult Protective Services investigates allegations of abuse, neglect, or exploitation involving elderly or disabled adults in Georgia. If you suspect that your loved one is being mistreated in a nursing home, APS can step in to assess the situation, provide immediate interventions, and connect residents with additional protective resources. APS has the authority to coordinate with law enforcement, medical providers, and social services to keep vulnerable adults safe.
911
If your loved one’s health or safety is in immediate jeopardy, you should call 911 right away. Emergency responders can provide urgent medical attention and involve law enforcement if necessary. While formal complaints are important, nothing is more urgent than making sure your loved one is safe in the moment.
How a Georgia nursing home abuse and neglect lawyer can help
While filing a complaint with Georgia’s agencies is important, it may not always be enough to stop the neglect or secure justice. A nursing home abuse and neglect lawyer can help you:
- Understand your legal rights and options
- Make sure your complaint is properly documented and submitted
- Hold the nursing home accountable through civil claims for compensation
- Protect your loved one’s health, safety, and dignity
Our legal team works with families across Georgia to navigate both the complaint process and any legal claims that may arise. If you’re unsure about what steps to take, speaking with an experienced lawyer can give you peace of mind and ensure your loved one is not left without protection.
Your family comes first at Johnson Greer Law Group
Filing a complaint against a nursing home in Georgia is an important step in protecting your loved one from neglect and abuse. By reporting concerns and complaints and keeping thorough records, you can help ensure the facility is held accountable.
At Johnson Greer Law Group, we understand how stressful this process can be. We know you may be worried about your loved one’s safety, frustrated with a lack of answers, or unsure where to turn next. That’s why we make it our mission to stand with families during these difficult moments.
When you reach out to us, you won’t just get legal guidance, you’ll get a team that listens, cares, and fights for your family as if it were our own. We can walk you through the reporting process, explain your legal options, and take action to hold negligent facilities accountable. If you suspect your loved one has been harmed, take the first step and contact us today.