Nursing home contracts govern the rights and responsibilities of nursing homes and their residents and include many important provisions such as services, charges, cost of living increases, resident funds deposited, room assignments, Medicare and Medicaid requirements, move-out conditions, liability for injury or loss of personal property, consent to medical procedures, visitation hours, dispute resolution, and guarantee of payment of nursing home charges by a family member or other person.
In Louisiana, nursing home contracts are legal documents that outline the obligations and rights of both the nursing home and its residents. These contracts typically include detailed provisions on the scope of services provided, fee structures, and payment schedules, including any potential cost of living increases. They also cover the management of resident funds that are deposited with the facility, specific room assignment policies, and the conditions under which a resident may be moved or discharged. The contracts must comply with federal and state regulations regarding Medicare and Medicaid if the facility accepts these forms of payment. Additionally, the contracts address liability issues relating to injury or loss of personal property, consent to medical treatments, and policies on visitation. Dispute resolution mechanisms, such as arbitration or mediation clauses, are often included to handle potential conflicts. Importantly, some contracts may contain a guarantee of payment clause, which could obligate a family member or another person to be responsible for the resident's nursing home expenses. It is crucial for residents and their families to thoroughly review and understand these contracts before signing, and they may seek the advice of an attorney to clarify any complex legal terms or implications.