Elder Law

State Wants to Close Oak Lawn, Illinois Nursing Home

By Levin & Perconti

Illinois public health officials plan to try to close an Oak Lawn, Illinois nursing home despite the fact that the Regal Health and Rehab Center is now complying with state regulators. Inspectors from the Illinois Department of Public Health conducted their annual inspections of the nursing home in February and found it in violation of several regulations, including deficiencies in medical equipment, personnel and supervision of residents. While the health department gave the Regal permission to remain open, the state remains concerned about the quality of care for the 83 current residents. Recently a resident hooked up to an oxygen machine was able to sneak a cigarette into his room, causing a small fire. The man died a week later. Earlier this month, Oak Lawn inspectors found elderly negligence including dirty water fountains and appliances, water-damaged ceilings and rodent droppings on the floors at Regal. Additionally, the inspection revealed that employees were smoking inside the building and were washing their hands in the same sinks that contained food. Regal is owned by Michael Lerner, who also owns Forest Hill Health & Rehab Center. Currently Levin & Perconti have filed a nursing home negligence case against Michael Lerner. To read more about the Oak Lawn nursing home negligence, please click the link.

Full post as published by Illinois Nursing Home Abuse Blog on June 16, 2009 (boomark / email).