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Nursing Home Minimum Staffing

Dignity for All

Points of view, opinions, or positions of the Ombudsman do not necessarily represent the view, positions, or policy of the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration [45 CFR part 1324.11(e)(8)].

Dignity for All, Minimum Staffing in Nursing Homes Campaign

Chronic understaffing has been a serious problem in nursing homes for decades and was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. While there are numerous factors contributing to this problem, one major cause is the lack of adequate minimum staffing standards at both the state and federal levels. Minimum standards ensure that staffing will not fall to a level that would be harmful to residents.

We know that overall, staffing levels make a difference. Studies have repeatedly shown that nursing homes with higher staffing levels provide better care to residents.  Data from CMS shows that nursing homes with higher averages of nursing care per day have higher overall ratings, better health inspection ratings, and fewer instances of abuse.

Local, state, and national advocates have pushed for minimum staffing standards for years. On February 28, 2022, President Biden announced a set of nursing home reforms that would be the most significant increase in protections for nursing home residents in decades. The cornerstone of his plan is to create a federal minimum staffing standard.

Indiana’s LTC Ombudsman Program supports Dignity for All and asks that you join the campaign. Take the survey on Consumer Voice’s web page and answer the question, “What does it mean to you to live or work in a nursing home with inadequate staffing?” Share your stories of living or working in a nursing home that does not have enough staff. Help us raise Hoosier voices in this nationwide effort.

The Consumer Voice is the leading national voice representing consumers in issues related to long-term care, helping to ensure that consumers are empowered to advocate for themselves. It is a primary source of information and tools for consumers, families, caregivers, advocates and Long Term Care Ombudsmen to help ensure quality care for the individual.