Senate hearing to examine abuse, neglect in nursing homes

The Senate Finance Committee is holding a hearing today to address shocking reports of abuse and neglect in nursing homes. Here’s what you need to know:

• The background: Numerous reports in recent years have outlined violations, from inadequate staffing to improper care and abuse. In December, an incapacitated patient at an Arizona long-term care facility gave birth after being raped. A nurse working at the facility was charged in the assault.
• The witnesses: Family members of abuse victims will testify, including the daughter of an Iowa woman who, while under nursing home care, is suspected to have died of severe dehydration. They will be joined by CMS Chief Medical Officer Kate Goodrich and other health experts.
• The context: The hearing comes amid attempts by the Trump administration to roll back Obama-era protections for nursing home patients and their families. One such rule requires facilities to regularly assess their staffing to ensure proper care for residents, but CMS proposed eliminating that rule last summer. You can watch the hearing, which begins at 10:15 a.m. ET, here.