Nursing Home COVID-19
Nursing home COVID-19 cases are out of control. COVID-19 outbreaks in nursing homes are responsible for more than 60% of coronavirus deaths in PA. Lancaster County has over 260 nursing home residents and 55 staff members testing positive for coronavirus. Additionally, 44 nursing home residents have already died of exposure to the coronavirus.
The figures and statistics in this article are accurate as of April 19, 2020.
In Pennsylvania, over 3,700 nursing home residents tested positive for COVID-19. Some Lancaster County nursing homes are reporting double-digit deaths. But, these numbers are not complete. Additionally, these numbers continue to grow each day. But, can families sue the nursing home?
PA Nursing Home Staff Overwhelmed
Nursing homes in Pennsylvania weren’t prepared for the coronavirus. Many homes struggled to follow guidelines before the pandemic. As the COVID-19 pandemic spread in PA, these nursing homes were overrun with sick patients. Residents and staff succumbed to exposure.
Failure To Follow Safety Guidelines
COVID-19 guidelines for PA nursing homes are more strict than the general public. These facilities care for people with an increased risk of getting the virus. Yet, many PA nursing homes failed to place any restrictions on staff or visitors. This led to widespread exposure before anyone showed symptoms.
Pennsylvania VA Hospital Deaths
A nursing home for veterans in Pennsylvania reported at least 10 resident deaths of COVID-19. Many of the staff are also sick. The remaining staff is so overwhelmed at this point, the National Guard supplied personnel to help.
Nursing Home Liability
Nursing homes in Pennsylvania have regular inspections. Nursing homes are regulated by the state. But, many nursing homes failed to follow health and safety guidelines. It’s clear that many elderly care facilities put their residents and employees at risk. We believe these people deserve better.
If you or an elderly loved one are at risk because of nursing home negligence, you may have legal options. If exposure to COVID-19 caused the wrongful death of a loved one, talk to an attorney.
When To Call An Attorney
If you or a loved one tested positive for COVID-19 while living in a nursing home in Pennsylvania, talk to an attorney. Not every situation is eligible for compensation. But, you’ll want to make sure your rights are protected.
If an elderly loved one has died from their exposure to the coronavirus, call an attorney right away. Your family may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. Don’t wait, the statute of limitations puts a time limit on when a person can file a civil lawsuit.
Lancaster Area Injury Attorney
At Haggerty & Silverman, we help injured people in Pennsylvania. We provide free legal consultations. The legal team of Haggerty & Silverman specializes in personal injury cases.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we are working from home offices to keep providing the best legal service in the area. We are able to provide free legal consultations over the phone and in video chat. Get the legal advice you need with no obligation. Call us today.