Ohio nursing homes do not have checks and balances regarding the integrity of record keeping and paperwork for diagnoses.
Over 16 months, my relative dealt with the ramifications of nursing homes (four out of four) adding diagnoses that were not hers and were not given by medical nor osteopathic doctors. It was also important to make sure previously recognized conditions remained in the files for the overall picture of her needs.
These diagnoses, or lack of, affected personal interaction and had the impact and potential impact of affecting medical retirement.
My efforts did not ensure adequate knowledge by the staff. Staff didn't usually have the time to read through the information. Rotating and non-routine staff had too many patients to remember certain ones' complex situations. Sometimes, paperwork that noted things like the need for extra dental checks would be removed from the file. After months of advocating for my loved one, I have to ponder the reasons for removing information that keeps residents safe and comfortable.
This is not adequate medical care. The system has to change or we should have other choices.
Brenda Asterino is a resident of Vancouver, Wash.
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Letter to the Editor
