Medical Malpractice Attorneys: Illinois Doctor Info to Go Public

In January of this year, the Mininno Law Office Blog posted about an act in Illinois government, passed by the House of Representatives and awaiting Senate approval, that would make available background information on medical providers throughout the state. On August 10th, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed into law the Patients’ Right to Know Act. This law will allow patients full access to the history of doctors and specialists, providing knowledge of medical malpractice lawsuits and/or payouts that the doctor has been involved in. More informed decisions can be made, and it can also be argued that the availablity of this information will force physicians to provide better care to patients in order to remain in business. The public release of this information could do far more damage to a negligent doctor’s practice than word of mouth ever could.

Patients Will Now Have Access to Crucial Information

new jersey philadelphia medical malpractice attorneys illinois doctor info goes publicThe doctors have been provided a sixty day window to edit and review their online profiles before they become accessible to the public. If doctors provide false information, and mislead potential healthcare consumers, lawyers believe that they will be subject to different forms of discipline. Other information that will be included in these profiles includes the medical schools they attended, specialty board certification, number of years in practice, location of practice, and whether or not the doctor participates in Medicaid.

While passage of the law might be a large step for patients in Illinois, is it really a win? With the ability to edit their profiles, will doctors really be providing all of the information patients would want to see? It might be slightly naive to believe that patients will now be fully informed before they select a doctor or physician. Medical malpractice attorneys believe that allowing patients to see if a doctor has been making malpractice payments in recent years will shed light on the diligence and professionalism of physicians before they are chosen. But whether or not this law will allow for that has yet to be seen.

Medical Malpractice Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If you or a family member has recently been the victim of medical negligence, it is possible that you would like to speak with our professionals. Please contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.

New Illinois Legislation Promises Better Nursing Home Care

new jersey philadelphia attorneys nursing home abuse neglect illinois legislation
Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signs bill that aims to improve the care being provided in nursing homes across the state.
Illinois Governor Pat Quinn recently signed a bill that aims to greatly improve the quality of care being provided to the state’s elderly citizens in nursing homes and long term care facilities. Supporters have high hopes that new regulations upheld by the bill will work to eradicate the disturbing trends of nursing home abuse, neglect, and violence currently plaguing the long term care industry.

Expected changes include:

  • New ratio of 1 inspector per every 500 beds
  • Increased criminal background checks and psychological testing of nursing home patients
  • Alternative housing arrangements for patients who are physically capable, but suffer from psychological conditions
  • Increased staffing levels at long term care facilities

  • Illinois State Governement
    intends to fund the plan by increasing licensing fees, and decreasing the amount of psychiatric patients in nursing homes. Small, group-homes require less staff oversight and will save some of the money the state currently spends on this area of care.

    Naysayers claim the bill is just a way to silence the public outcry for tighter restrictions on the care being provided in Illinois nursing homes. Whether or not that is true really doesn’t matter. The bill was signed, changes will be made, and nursing home care will improve.

    The Mininno Law Office Frowns Upon Nursing Home Abuse

    The Mininno Law Office has taken a firm and unwavering stand against nursing home abuse. Our elderly citizens deserve respectful, careful, and attentive treatment while staying in nursing homes and long term care facilities.

    If you or a loved one have experienced what you believe is nursing home abuse or negligence, contact the Mininno Law Office. Our New Jersey and Philadelphia Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys are ready to help you with your claim against the nursing home, and will work ’round the clock to get you the compensation you deserve. You can also call at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.