Blog | Levin & Perconti https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/ National Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice & Nursing Home Law Firm, Headquartered in Chicago, IL. Wed, 20 May 2026 18:19:31 +0000 en-US hourly 1 When a Second Opinion Could Have Changed Everything: Delayed Diagnosis Stories https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/second-opinion-delayed-diagnosis-stories/ https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/second-opinion-delayed-diagnosis-stories/#respond Wed, 20 May 2026 18:19:28 +0000 https://www.levinperconti.com/?p=6407 You go to the doctor looking for answers, only to have your symptoms dismissed or misdiagnosed. As a result, your condition worsens, and you later discover that your provider overlooked something serious. This type of scenario happens all too often in Chicago, and it could signal that medical negligence is at play. A delayed diagnosis […]

The post When a Second Opinion Could Have Changed Everything: Delayed Diagnosis Stories appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>
Dov Apfel headshot
Content Reviewed by: Dov Apfel

Since 1979, Dov Apfel has been passionate about advocating for birth injury and medical malpractice victims. Mr. Apfel’s career-long record of achievements in birth injury litigation, education, and advocacy has been recognized by the Executive Board of the Birth Trauma Litigation Group of the American Association for Justice. His expertise is demonstrated by his numerous awards, presentations on birth injury topics at legal conferences for organizations like the AAJ and ATLA, and articles published by Trial Magazine and many others.

SEE FULL BIO

Since 1979, Dov Apfel has been passionate about advocating for birth injury and medical malpractice victims. Mr. Apfel’s career-long record of achievements in birth injury litigation, education, and advocacy has been recognized by the Executive Board of the Birth Trauma Litigation Group of the American Association for Justice. His expertise is demonstrated by his numerous awards, presentations on birth injury topics at legal conferences for organizations like the AAJ and ATLA, and articles published by Trial Magazine and many others.

SEE FULL BIO

Key Takeaways

You go to the doctor looking for answers, only to have your symptoms dismissed or misdiagnosed. As a result, your condition worsens, and you later discover that your provider overlooked something serious. This type of scenario happens all too often in Chicago, and it could signal that medical negligence is at play.

A delayed diagnosis can mean more invasive treatment, fewer options, or long-term complications that you might have avoided with earlier care. In many cases, a second opinion from another provider can uncover what your doctor missed and help you understand what should have happened when you first sought their care. If you believe a second medical opinion could have changed the outcome of your care, Levin & Perconti can review your case and help you pursue accountability if your care fell short.

What Is a Delayed Diagnosis?

A delayed diagnosis happens when a health care provider fails to identify a medical condition within a reasonable timeframe. This can allow a condition to worsen unnecessarily before treatment begins or limit the patient’s treatment options once the condition is eventually diagnosed. As a result, the patient may suffer more serious harm than they would have if the provider had diagnosed the condition earlier.

Delayed diagnosis may qualify as medical malpractice if it involves a violation of the standard of care. This means the provider did not act as a reasonably competent professional would under similar circumstances.

Not every delay involves negligence. Some conditions are difficult to detect, even with appropriate care. The strength of a delayed diagnosis case depends on whether the provider could have made the diagnosis sooner and whether the delay caused additional harm.

Real Cases Where a Second Opinion Could Have Made a Difference

These real-life stories show how missed warning signs and delayed action can alter the course of a patient’s life. In each situation, earlier intervention could have led to a very different outcome.

Ignored X-Ray Results Cause Cancer to Spread

A woman underwent chest X-rays before back surgery, which showed an abnormality in her lung. Her doctors failed to communicate the findings or order follow-up testing, and her cancer remained undiagnosed for nearly two years.

Eventually, the woman complained to her primary care physician of coughing and shortness of breath. Her doctor performed a new series of chest X-rays and diagnosed the cancer, which had grown three-fold and spread to her brain.

Experts testified that her survival odds would have been at least 65% if the cancer had been diagnosed at the time of the first X-rays, but that number dropped to less than 5% when she finally received a diagnosis. Our attorneys achieved a $14 million jury verdict after proving that the failure to communicate critical test results caused the woman’s cancer to spread unnecessarily.

Takeaway: Failing to act on abnormal findings can turn an early-stage, treatable condition into a life-threatening diagnosis.

Failure To Recognize Infection Causes Fatal Sepsis

A 61-year-old woman who was born with only one kidney was admitted to the hospital for treatment of a kidney stone. Early records showed signs of a kidney infection and a blocked urinary system, but the medical team failed to diagnose and treat the infection in time. Over the next 26 hours, her condition progressed to sepsis.

A timely intervention with antibiotics and a simple procedure to drain the kidney likely would have resulted in a full recovery for the woman. Instead, she suffered a preventable death. The failure to act on obvious warning signs and risk factors became central to the case, allowing our attorneys to secure an $8 million wrongful death settlement for the family.

Takeaway: Failing to address a routine infection can allow a manageable condition to become fatal.

Delayed C-Section Leads to Fetal Brain Damage

A first-time mother arrived at the hospital at 40 weeks pregnant to deliver her baby. During labor, there were clear signs of fetal distress, but the medical team did not act quickly to perform a cesarean section. This delay meant the baby was not delivered in time to prevent oxygen deprivation.

The lack of timely intervention led to a diagnosis of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, and the child was later diagnosed with cerebral palsy. The condition caused permanent, life-altering impairments affecting movement and coordination. Our team secured an $18 million settlement for the family, using expert analysis and strong courtroom advocacy to prove the connection between the delayed C-section and the child’s injuries.

Takeaway: Delays in responding to clear warning signs during labor can lead to lifelong harm.

Examples of Commonly Misdiagnosed Medical Conditions

Some conditions are more prone to misdiagnosis than others, including:

  • Cancer, especially colorectal, lung, breast, prostate, and bladder cancers
  • Stroke
  • Heart attack and heart failure
  • Sepsis
  • Pulmonary embolism
  • Brain hemorrhage
  • Pneumonia
  • Kidney failure
  • Urinary tract infections

These conditions often involve symptoms that overlap with less serious issues or develop gradually over time. In many cases, the warning signs are there, but they require providers to connect the dots and act promptly. The complex nature of many of these conditions means that even a slight misstep can lead to a delayed or incorrect diagnosis.

Types of Care Failures That May Lead To Misdiagnosis

Health care providers may miss diagnoses for several reasons. A doctor may ignore a patient’s complaints, fail to order appropriate tests, misread imaging or lab results, or overlook signs of illness during an exam.

Poor follow-up may also play a role when a provider receives abnormal test results but fails to notify the patient or delays reviewing those results. In some cases, a provider may fail to refer the patient to a specialist when the situation calls for a more advanced evaluation.

These care failures may rise to the level of negligence when they don’t match what a reasonable provider with similar training and experience would do under the same circumstances. If the delay was avoidable and led to a worse outcome, it may support a medical malpractice claim.

The Power of a Second Opinion

A second opinion can change the entire course of a patient’s treatment. When another provider reviews your symptoms or records, they may identify something that the other doctor previously overlooked or recognize the need for further testing.

This fresh perspective can be critical in time-sensitive situations, where earlier intervention may improve the outcome. It can also provide a clearer understanding of whether your care met the appropriate standard if your condition already worsened due to a delayed diagnosis. This information can potentially form the basis of a misdiagnosis lawsuit.

One man’s story illustrates the power of a second opinion. After he experienced unusual chest discomfort, he received treatment for a heart attack at the hospital and was discharged with more questions than answers. Wanting clarity, he sought a second opinion from a specialist, who confirmed parts of the original diagnosis but recommended additional testing and lifestyle modifications. This deeper review helped him better understand his condition and gave him access to more thoughtful and complete medical care.

Get Answers From Our Chicago Medical Malpractice Lawyers

A delayed diagnosis can cause lasting and preventable harm. If you suspect that care failures contributed to poorer health outcomes, it may be worth taking a closer look at what happened.

Once you get a second medical opinion, Levin & Perconti will be ready to listen to your story, analyze your medical records, and help you identify if medical malpractice is at play. From there, our Chicago misdiagnosis lawyers can build a strong case proving your provider’s negligence and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Our firm has recovered over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements for injured people and their families. Let us put that track record to work for you. Contact us online or call 312-332-2872 to start moving forward with a free consultation.

The post When a Second Opinion Could Have Changed Everything: Delayed Diagnosis Stories appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/second-opinion-delayed-diagnosis-stories/feed/ 0 dov-apfel-square Steps To Take If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/steps-to-take-if-you-suspect-nursing-home-abuse/ https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/steps-to-take-if-you-suspect-nursing-home-abuse/#respond Fri, 08 May 2026 16:03:00 +0000 https://levinpercondev.wpenginepowered.com/?p=630 Nursing home residents and their families put their trust in their caregivers and staff to meet their needs and keep them safe. Unfortunately, many nursing home patients are vulnerable to abuse from staff, residents, and others who wish to take advantage of their conditions. At Levin & Perconti, we understand how heartbreaking it can be […]

The post Steps To Take If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>

Key Takeaways

Nursing home residents and their families put their trust in their caregivers and staff to meet their needs and keep them safe. Unfortunately, many nursing home patients are vulnerable to abuse from staff, residents, and others who wish to take advantage of their conditions.

At Levin & Perconti, we understand how heartbreaking it can be to suspect that your loved one is being abused in a nursing home and how difficult it can be to prove. We’ve assembled a list of steps to help you investigate and report nursing home abuse. Taking swift action can be critical to ensuring your loved one’s safety and well-being.

Recognize the Signs of Abuse

There are multiple types of nursing home abuse, each with different signs to look out for. Here are the common types with the corresponding signs to watch for:

  • Physical abuse occurs when a resident is mistreated or neglected in a way that causes them bodily harm or pain. Such abuse can include hitting, misusing physical restraints, or non-consensual sexual contact. Signs of physical abuse include unexplained bruises, broken bones, or other injuries, as well as sudden behavioral changes like an increase in fear or anxiety.
  • Emotional abuse usually involves insults, harassment, or threats directed at a resident and is the most common variety of elder abuse. Sudden anxiety, withdrawal from social interactions or favorite activities, and depression can be signs of emotional abuse.
  • Neglect occurs when caregivers refuse or fail to address a resident’s basic needs, leading to malnutrition and deteriorating health. Untreated bedsores, unexplained weight loss, and poor hygiene can be signs of neglect.
  • Financial abuse happens when nursing home employees or even family members take advantage of residents with some form of cognitive decline by stealing their property, impersonating them in financial transactions, or coercing them into changing their wills. Unexplained changes in financial documents or accounts, fraudulent signatures, and unusual withdrawals can point to financial abuse.

Ensure Immediate Safety

When you suspect nursing home abuse, take action as soon as possible. Call the police if your loved one is in immediate danger or distress. Remove them from the facility if possible. Our knowledgeable nursing home abuse attorneys can help you relocate your loved one and ensure their safety.

Document the Evidence

Creating a detailed record of the details you know to help establish when and how the abuse occurred.

When you visit, take thorough notes about the conditions at the home, recording specific dates, times, and incidents you’re aware of. If you can discretely and respectfully take photos of any visible injuries or signs of neglect, you can create crucial evidence.

Obtain recorded statements from your loved one if they’re able to provide one, and seek out any witnesses who might be willing to testify about what happened.

Report the Abuse

Take your evidence and file a complaint with the nursing home’s management, long-term care ombudsman, and with the state. Beyond supporting your loved one, taking action ignites systemic improvements that safeguard every resident under that roof.

Before filing a complaint, speak with a knowledgeable and experienced nursing home abuse attorney. Our attorneys can advise you of your options and guide you through the process.

Consult a Levin & Perconti Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Specializing in Elder Abuse

Seeking legal assistance is key to addressing nursing home abuse, especially if reporting internally or through state agencies doesn’t resolve the situation. Levin & Perconti has been a nationally recognized pioneer in nursing home neglect and abuse litigation for more than three decades and has over 400 years of combined experience, putting us in the best position to help you get justice for your loved one’s treatment.

We know how to successfully investigate and prove nursing home abuse claims. We often employ medical experts like geriatricians, forensic nurses, psychologists, and others to evaluate abuse and demonstrate its impact on the victim’s well-being. We also work with forensic accountants, data analysts, rehabilitation experts, social workers, and more to build the strongest case.

We’ve recovered over $20 billion in verdicts and settlements for our clients since 1992. Examples of our significant nursing home abuse case results include the following:

  • $12,200,000 settlement for the negligent nursing care that led to the death of a mother, marking the largest nursing home verdict in Illinois history
  • $4,100,00 for a jury verdict on behalf of an 85-year-old woman injured in a nursing home when her medications were mismanaged
  • $2,900,000 settlement against a suburban Homewood nursing home for the family of a deceased 57-year-old resident who was suffocated due to the home’s negligent care of her tracheostomy tube
  • $2,800,000 settlement settlement against a suburban Hillside nursing home and physician for a 59-year-old resident who developed multiple painful and infected bedsores, which took four years to heal

Seek Additional Support

Local advocacy groups like AARP Illinois or the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care can help provide support and resources for you and your loved one while you investigate and resolve your nursing home abuse claims.

Follow Up

Don’t let the situation go unaddressed. After investigating and reporting suspected nursing home abuse, continue visiting with your loved one to ensure they are safe and thriving. Periodically follow up with the nursing home management or state agencies to monitor investigations and ensure they move forward properly.

Trust Levin & Perconti for Your Nursing Home Abuse Case

Taking immediate action is the best way to keep your loved one safe from suspected nursing home abuse and hold liable parties accountable for their unacceptable behavior. Our experienced nursing home abuse attorneys are passionate about standing up for the rights of long-term care residents and ensuring they get the justice they deserve.

Contact us online or call (312) 332-2872 today if you need help investigating, reporting, or taking legal action against nursing home abuse.

The post Steps To Take If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/steps-to-take-if-you-suspect-nursing-home-abuse/feed/ 0 What To Do After Being Hit by a Car as a Pedestrian in Chicago https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/what-to-do-after-being-hit-by-a-car-as-a-pedestrian-in-chicago/ Fri, 08 May 2026 14:03:44 +0000 https://www.levinperconti.com/?p=6330 Your first priority should always be getting medical attention, even if your injuries do not seem serious at first. After receiving medical care, there are additional steps that can help protect you and your claim, from documenting what happened to preserving important information. An attorney can assist with many of these steps and help ensure […]

The post What To Do After Being Hit by a Car as a Pedestrian in Chicago appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>

Your first priority should always be getting medical attention, even if your injuries do not seem serious at first. After receiving medical care, there are additional steps that can help protect you and your claim, from documenting what happened to preserving important information. An attorney can assist with many of these steps and help ensure nothing is overlooked, especially in the early stages of a claim.

Knowing what to do after being hit by a car can help you protect your health, preserve important evidence, and make informed decisions about what comes next.

What To Do at the Scene of the Accident

The first few minutes after an accident can be disorienting, but the steps you take still matter.

Call 911 and make sure a Chicago Police Department officer responds. The police report is one of the most important documents in any pedestrian accident claim because it creates an official record of what happened.

If you are able, gather the driver’s name, phone number, insurance information, license plate, and vehicle details. Take a photo of the license plate and the scene if it is safe to do so.

Avoid apologizing or making statements about fault. Anything you say at the scene can be misunderstood or taken out of context, especially when you are injured or trying to process what just happened.

How a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Helps From the Start

After a pedestrian is hit by a car in Chicago, acting quickly can make a difference in what evidence is available and how your claim develops.

In Chicago, busy areas like the Magnificent Mile, State Street, and neighborhoods such as Wrigleyville, Andersonville, and Bronzeville see constant foot traffic and vehicle movement. These areas are often lined with businesses that may have security cameras showing how the accident happened. However, this footage is usually kept for a limited time.

A pedestrian accident lawyer can step in quickly to preserve that evidence and manage other key aspects of your case. An attorney can also gather police reports, locate witnesses, review medical records, and handle communication with insurance companies from the start.

When Insurance Calls and How to Respond

In Chicago, it is common to hear from the driver’s insurance company within days of a pedestrian accident, sometimes before you have had a chance to fully assess your injuries.

That timing is deliberate. In Chicago, more than one person per day was seriously injured or killed while walking in 2022. Insurers act quickly to protect their bottom line in these cases, and you may be asked for a recorded statement or to explain what happened.

It is important to be cautious. Avoid discussing fault, downplaying common injuries, or agreeing to a recorded statement before speaking with a lawyer. Getting legal guidance first can help you protect your claim and avoid saying something that may be used against you later.

What To Do in the First Week After a Pedestrian Accident

The first week is when patterns form in your medical care, documentation, and claim. Small decisions during this time can have a lasting impact.

It is important to focus on the following steps:

  • Continue medical care: Follow all treatment recommendations and attend every appointment to create a consistent record of your injuries.
  • Track missed work: Keep a record of any time you are unable to work and how the injury affects your ability to earn income.
  • Save all expenses: Hold onto receipts and records for transportation, medications, and any costs related to your recovery.
  • Avoid social media: Do not post about the accident or your activities, as posts can be taken out of context and used against you.
  • Connect with a lawyer: If you have not already done so, this is the time to speak with an attorney who can begin protecting your claim.

What Happens in the Months After a Pedestrian Accident

After the first week, your case begins to take shape over the following months. This period focuses on building your claim, understanding your injuries, and deciding how to move forward.

During this time, expect the following:

  • Building your case: Your legal team gathers medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and any available footage to determine what happened and who is responsible.
  • Negotiating with insurance: Attorneys handle communication with the insurance company and push back against low offers based on the full impact of your injuries.
  • Evaluating settlement options: As your condition becomes clearer, you and your attorney will assess whether a settlement reflects your losses or if further action is needed.
    Considering a lawsuit: If a fair resolution is not offered, filing a lawsuit may be necessary to pursue full compensation.
  • Addressing long-term impact: This includes future medical care, time away from work, and how the injury may affect your daily life.
downtown chicago

Your Legal Rights as a Pedestrian Under Chicago Law

Illinois law often protects pedestrians in crosswalks and at pedestrian-control signals, but the exact right-of-way rules depend on the circumstances. Pedestrians must obey traffic-control devices, and crossing outside a marked or unmarked crosswalk can affect how fault is assessed. Even so, drivers must exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians.

These rules apply everywhere, from high-traffic corridors like Western Avenue and Ashland Avenue to busy intersections near Hyde Park and Pilsen, where foot traffic and vehicle congestion often overlap.

In 2025, Illinois reported more than 300 fatalities on city streets, highlighting how often serious crashes occur in these environments. City streets involve frequent stops, turns, and close interactions between drivers and pedestrians, which can increase the risk of driver error.

Common Mistakes Pedestrian Accident Victims Make

Small decisions can have a lasting impact on your health and your claim. Many of these mistakes happen early and can make it harder to recover compensation.

Common mistakes to avoid include:

  • Delaying medical care: Waiting to seek treatment can make it harder to connect your injuries to the accident and may raise questions about their severity.
  • Speaking with insurance alone: Talking to the insurance adjuster without legal guidance can lead to statements that are used to reduce or deny your claim.
  • Accepting a quick settlement: Early offers often do not reflect the full extent of your injuries or future impact.
  • Failing to preserve evidence: Not collecting photos, witness information, or details from the scene can weaken your ability to prove what happened.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do I Have To File a Claim in Illinois?

In most cases, you have two years to file a personal injury claim, but it is best to speak with a lawyer to confirm deadlines.

You may still have a claim, as drivers are expected to exercise reasonable care, even if you were not in a crosswalk.

You may still recover compensation, though the outcome may depend on the circumstances. A lawyer can review what happened and explain your options.

The value depends on your injuries, medical care, lost income, and how the accident has affected your life.

You can handle a claim on your own, but working with a lawyer can help protect your rights and avoid costly mistakes.
Yes, visitors generally have the same rights, but it is important to understand how Illinois law applies to your situation.

Get Help After a Pedestrian Accident in Chicago

Knowing what to do after being hit by a car is an important first step, but you do not have to handle everything on your own. Getting the right guidance early can make a difference in how your claim moves forward and how your injuries are documented.

Levin & Perconti has recovered over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements and brings more than 400 years of combined experience to cases involving serious injuries, including pedestrian accidents in Chicago.

If you were injured as a pedestrian, call (312) 332-2872 or contact Levin & Perconti online to discuss your situation and learn what options may be available to you.

The post What To Do After Being Hit by a Car as a Pedestrian in Chicago appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> downtown chicago Why Illinois Nursing Homes Still Rank Among the Worst in the Nation https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/reports-show-illinois-nursing-homes-still-ranking-worst-in-nation/ https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/reports-show-illinois-nursing-homes-still-ranking-worst-in-nation/#respond Fri, 08 May 2026 07:15:00 +0000 https://levinpercondev.wpenginepowered.com/?p=612 A recent investigation has once again confirmed what many families and advocates have long known: despite a major funding overhaul in 2022, Illinois nursing homes continue to rank among the worst in the country. Too many long-term care residents are still living in unsafe conditions due to persistent understaffing, poor oversight, and a system that […]

The post Why Illinois Nursing Homes Still Rank Among the Worst in the Nation appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>
Michael F. Bonamarte, IV headshot
Content Reviewed by: Michael F. Bonamarte, IV

Since 2005, Michael Bonamarte IV has been a passionate advocate for victims of negligent conduct, corporate malfeasance, and medical malpractice. He has won numerous awards and recognitions, including Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers’ Rising Star. He has presented for the American Association for Justice, the AAJ Nursing Home Litigation Group, the John Marshall Law School, and numerous other legal associations. He regularly lectures at Chicago-area aging organizations about nursing home abuse. His writings have been published by the American Bar Association, the Chicago Daily Bulletin, and numerous other prestigious publications.

SEE FULL BIO

Since 2005, Michael Bonamarte IV has been a passionate advocate for victims of negligent conduct, corporate malfeasance, and medical malpractice. He has won numerous awards and recognitions, including Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers’ Rising Star. He has presented for the American Association for Justice, the AAJ Nursing Home Litigation Group, the John Marshall Law School, and numerous other legal associations. He regularly lectures at Chicago-area aging organizations about nursing home abuse. His writings have been published by the American Bar Association, the Chicago Daily Bulletin, and numerous other prestigious publications.

SEE FULL BIO

Key Takeaways

A recent investigation has once again confirmed what many families and advocates have long known: despite a major funding overhaul in 2022, Illinois nursing homes continue to rank among the worst in the country. Too many long-term care residents are still living in unsafe conditions due to persistent understaffing, poor oversight, and a system that prioritizes profit over people.

Illinois Still Ranks Near the Bottom In The Nation

Illinois currently ranks 47th in the nation for nursing home quality. Although the state increased funding by over $500 million annually through a 2022 reform package, the reimbursement formula is still based on 2017 costs, leaving facilities struggling to meet today’s expenses. While lawmakers touted the funding increase as a step toward better care, conditions inside many homes remain dire.

Poor Ratings Reflect Deeper Problems in Illinois Nursing Homes

Federal data shows that nearly 250 Illinois nursing homes have a one-star rating—the lowest possible under the federal five-star system. In contrast, only about 60 homes earned five stars. These ratings reflect staffing shortages, repeated safety violations, and poor health outcomes for residents. While state officials say staffing levels have increased in some facilities, the gains have not been enough to improve quality across the board.

In some cases, corporate operators have closed low-performing homes and transferred residents to better-rated ones, only to later shut those facilities down as well. Families report frequent moves, skipped care, and unclean environments. The impact on residents, especially those with serious medical conditions, is devastating.

Oversight and Accountability Are Still Lacking

Illinois regulators have increased enforcement in recent years. The Department of Public Health reports that the number of assessed nursing home violations grew by 18% from 2022 to 2023 and by 33% from 2023 to 2024. The state also has the authority to impose higher fines on facilities that don’t comply with staffing rules.

But enforcement alone isn’t solving the problem. Industry advocates blame funding shortfalls, but watchdog groups like AARP Illinois argue that’s only part of the story. Corporate ownership structures, limited transparency, and legal loopholes continue to shield bad actors from accountability. Facilities that receive public funding are still allowed to use arbitration clauses and shell companies to avoid litigation and responsibility when residents are harmed.

“We agree with the AARP. Too many Illinois nursing home residents suffer poor care due to systemic failures, greed, and lack of accountability for major offenders. The industry is trying to deprive nursing home residents and their families of their right to due process,” said Michael Bonamarte, managing partner at Levin & Perconti.

History has shown that lawsuits and litigation can drive significant changes in society and business practices by influencing legal precedents, public awareness, and corporate behavior. That’s why the current loopholes allowing nursing homes to avoid litigation and financial responsibility must be addressed by lawmakers. Change will never come unless and until victims can pursue full accountability.”

Michael F. Bonamarte, IV, Managing Partner

The Role of Litigation in Protecting Residents

When Illinois passed the Nursing Home Care Act in 1979, it recognized that government agencies alone cannot protect nursing home residents. The law was designed to empower families to hold negligent facilities accountable through the courts. But today, legal action is becoming more difficult due to aggressive tactics by nursing home operators aimed at avoiding liability.

“When the Illinois Nursing Home Care Act was passed in Illinois in 1979 to protect residents from abuse and neglect, there was an acknowledgment that government cannot police nursing homes on its own and that litigation should play a role in this,” said Margaret Battersby Black, managing partner at Levin & Perconti.

But in recent years, this has become increasingly challenging because of the shameful tactics used by many nursing homes to avoid liability. As a leader in nursing home litigation, our firm is not backing down. We are committed to obtaining justice for our clients and leveling the playing field for nursing home residents and their families who pursue lawsuits.”

Margaret P. Battersby Black, Managing Partner

Levin & Perconti Fights For Justice, Reform, and Respect of Nursing Home Residents

The recent legislative reform for nursing home care was a step in the right direction, but it wasn’t enough. Real change will require:

  • Updated reimbursement standards that reflect current costs of care.
  • Stronger enforcement of staffing requirements and safety regulations.
  • Greater transparency in ownership and financial practices.
  • Legal protections that allow families to seek justice when things go wrong.

At Levin & Perconti, we’ve built our reputation on advocating for nursing home residents and their families. We remain committed to fighting for those harmed by nursing home abuse, neglect, and systemic failures and to ensuring that Illinois nursing homes provide the care and dignity every resident deserves.

If your loved one has suffered in a nursing facility, our attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and pursue justice. Please, contact us now for a FREE consultation at 312-332-2872 or fill out our form.

News Source: Illinois nursing homes ranked among the worst in the nation; residents call for action

The post Why Illinois Nursing Homes Still Rank Among the Worst in the Nation appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/reports-show-illinois-nursing-homes-still-ranking-worst-in-nation/feed/ 0 michael-f-bonamarte-IV-square Michael Bonamarte Cooling Therapy for Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/cooling-therapy-for-hie/ https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/cooling-therapy-for-hie/#respond Thu, 07 May 2026 09:13:00 +0000 https://levinpercondev.wpenginepowered.com/?p=668 Hearing that your newborn has hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) can turn everything upside down. One moment you’re meeting your baby, and the next you’re trying to make sense of medical terms, monitors, and urgent decisions. If cooling therapy has been mentioned, it’s completely natural to feel unsure about what it means and whether everything happened the […]

The post Cooling Therapy for Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>
Dov Apfel headshot
Content Reviewed by: Dov Apfel

Since 1979, Dov Apfel has been passionate about advocating for birth injury and medical malpractice victims. Mr. Apfel’s career-long record of achievements in birth injury litigation, education, and advocacy has been recognized by the Executive Board of the Birth Trauma Litigation Group of the American Association for Justice. His expertise is demonstrated by his numerous awards, presentations on birth injury topics at legal conferences for organizations like the AAJ and ATLA, and articles published by Trial Magazine and many others.

SEE FULL BIO

Since 1979, Dov Apfel has been passionate about advocating for birth injury and medical malpractice victims. Mr. Apfel’s career-long record of achievements in birth injury litigation, education, and advocacy has been recognized by the Executive Board of the Birth Trauma Litigation Group of the American Association for Justice. His expertise is demonstrated by his numerous awards, presentations on birth injury topics at legal conferences for organizations like the AAJ and ATLA, and articles published by Trial Magazine and many others.

SEE FULL BIO

Key Takeaways

Hearing that your newborn has hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) can turn everything upside down. One moment you’re meeting your baby, and the next you’re trying to make sense of medical terms, monitors, and urgent decisions. If cooling therapy has been mentioned, it’s completely natural to feel unsure about what it means and whether everything happened the way it should have.

This guide explains what cooling therapy for babies with HIE is, how it works, who qualifies, and what the treatment process looks like. It also covers why timing matters and what questions may come up if care was delayed or not provided.

If something doesn’t feel right or you’re looking for answers, you can call 312-332-2872 to talk through your situation.

What Is HIE?

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a type of brain injury that happens when a baby’s brain doesn’t get enough oxygen and blood flow around the time of birth. For many parents, this is the first time hearing the term, often in an already overwhelming moment.

Below are the stages of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy and the associated symptoms:

  • Stage I: Mild Babies may be more alert or irritable, with feeding or muscle tone changes; symptoms often improve within a few days.
  • Stage II: Moderate Babies may be very sleepy, have trouble breathing or feeding, and may experience seizures.
  • Stage III: Severe Babies may be unresponsive, require breathing support, and face serious complications.

Not every case is tied to a medical mistake. But sometimes, HIE can be linked to complications during labor or delivery that may not have been recognized or addressed in time.

What Is Cooling Therapy for Babies With HIE?

Cooling therapy, also called therapeutic hypothermia, is the standard treatment for eligible newborns with moderate to severe HIE. It’s designed to slow the processes that can cause further brain injury after oxygen loss.

In simple terms, HIE often involves:

  • An initial event where oxygen is reduced
  • A second phase, where the body’s response can cause additional damage

Cooling therapy helps interrupt that second phase. During treatment:

  • Your baby’s temperature is lowered to about 92–93°F
  • The temperature is maintained for about 72 hours
  • The body is then slowly warmed

The process can look intense, but cooling therapy is a well-established approach focused on protecting your baby’s brain during a critical period.

Who Is Eligible for Cooling Therapy for HIE?

 

Cooling therapy is not appropriate for every newborn. It’s typically used when certain signs suggest a baby may benefit, and those need to be evaluated quickly after birth.

In general, it’s considered for babies born at or near full term who are showing signs of oxygen deprivation during or around delivery. Premature babies are often not eligible for cooling therapy because their bodies may not tolerate the treatment in the same way. Other signs of HIE may include:

  • Low Apgar scores
  • Trouble breathing or needing resuscitation
  • Abnormal blood gas levels
  • Weak muscle tone
  • Seizures or unusual neurological responses

The medical team is responsible for recognizing these signs, determining eligibility, and starting treatment as quickly as possible when appropriate.

Why the Six-Hour Window for Cooling Therapy Is Critical

Cooling therapy is most effective when started within six hours of birth, which is the standard treatment window. During that time, the medical team must recognize possible signs of HIE, evaluate your baby, determine whether the criteria for cooling therapy are met, and begin treatment. If the hospital is not equipped to provide cooling therapy, this may also involve arranging a transfer to a facility that can.

Because of how time-sensitive this process is, clear communication and quick decisions are essential. Delays in recognizing HIE, gaps between providers, or delays in transfer can affect whether treatment begins in time. When those breakdowns happen, it can raise questions about whether the appropriate standard of care was followed during a critical period. If you have questions about how quickly care was provided, a Chicago birth injury lawyer can help talk you through the timeline.

What to Expect During Cooling Therapy in the NICU

Seeing your baby in the NICU during cooling therapy can feel overwhelming. The monitors, wires, and equipment can be a lot to take in, and it’s completely normal to feel anxious.

During treatment, your baby is placed on a cooling blanket or mattress to lower and maintain their temperature. You may see monitors tracking heart rate, oxygen levels, and brain activity, along with IV lines or breathing support. While it can look intense, each part of that setup allows the team to watch your baby closely and respond quickly. It’s constant, attentive care focused on protecting your baby.

You may not be able to hold your baby right away, but you’re still part of their care; staying close, talking to them, and asking questions can help you stay connected through it.

Cooling Therapy Risks and What Doctors Monitor

Cooling therapy is widely used and supported by clinical research, and it can improve outcomes for many babies. At the same time, like any medical treatment, it does carry some risks, which is why close monitoring is such an important part of the process.

During treatment, the team typically watches for:

  • Changes in heart rate
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Blood pressure shifts
  • Blood clotting issues
  • Electrolyte imbalances

These are not uncommon in critically ill newborns, and monitoring helps the team respond quickly to any changes and keep your baby stable.

Careful monitoring is not just a medical priority. It also plays a role in evaluating whether the care provided met expected standards during a very sensitive period.

What Cooling Therapy Can and Cannot Do for HIE

Cooling therapy can improve outcomes for many babies with HIE, especially when started quickly. But it is not a cure, and it does not guarantee a full recovery.

What Cooling Therapy Can DoWhat Cooling Therapy Cannot Do
Help reduce the risk of further brain injuryReverse damage that has already occurred
Improve the chances of better neurological outcomesGuarantee normal development
Slow down harmful processes after oxygen lossEliminate the need for ongoing care or monitoring
Provide a critical window of protection during early injuryPrevent all long-term complications

Some children still experience developmental or neurological challenges, even with timely treatment. If there were delays in starting therapy, gaps in monitoring, or other setbacks in care, those situations may raise questions about whether the care provided met expected standards.

When a Failure to Treat HIE May Be Medical Malpractice

Not every case of HIE involves medical malpractice. But in some situations, questions come up about whether the care provided met expected standards, especially during the crucial hours before and after birth.

Potential concerns may include:

  • Delays in recognizing oxygen deprivation
  • Inadequate monitoring during labor and delivery
  • Delays in performing an emergency or untimely C-section
  • Failure to evaluate for cooling therapy
  • Delays in starting treatment within six hours
  • Communication breakdowns between providers
  • Delays in transferring to a facility that offers cooling therapy

These situations are complex, and the details matter. Understanding what happened often involves reviewing records and timelines from a very narrow window of time.

If you have questions about your child’s care or whether something may have been missed, speaking with a legal team can help bring clarity. You can call 312-332-2872 to talk through your experience and better understand your options.

How Levin & Perconti Has Helped Families in HIE Cases

Families facing an HIE diagnosis are often dealing with more than medical uncertainty. There can be emotional strain, long-term care concerns, and financial pressure all at once. It’s a lot to carry, especially when questions remain about what happened during delivery or shortly after.

At Levin & Perconti, we’ve handled complex birth injury cases involving delays in care, missed warning signs, and failures to act within critical time windows.

  • $40 million verdict for a child who suffered a severe brain injury due to a delayed C-section
  • $27 million verdict for a child who suffered preventable HIE and asphyxia at birth
  • $11.5 million settlement for a child who suffered a catastrophic hypoxic-ischemic brain injury

These cases are not just about outcomes. We focus on understanding what happened and helping families move forward with support. Our firm has recovered over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements. Consultations are free, and there is no fee unless we win.

Talk Through Your Child’s HIE Diagnosis

Every family’s experience with HIE is different, and the questions that follow can feel just as overwhelming as the diagnosis itself. Taking time to understand what happened and what options may be available can be an important step forward.

If you’re trying to understand what happened or what your options may be, you can call 312-332-2872 to speak with someone at Levin & Perconti who can help you talk through your situation.

The post Cooling Therapy for Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/cooling-therapy-for-hie/feed/ 0 dov-apfel-square Inspections of Illinois’ Worst Nursing Homes Show Abuse & Neglect https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/inspections-of-illinois-worst-nursing-homes-show-abuse-neglect/ https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/inspections-of-illinois-worst-nursing-homes-show-abuse-neglect/#respond Wed, 06 May 2026 12:00:00 +0000 https://levinpercondev.wpenginepowered.com/?p=424 Nursing Homes Cited for Mistreatment Are Flagged with Special Icon on Government Website In 2019, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service’s (CMS) Five-Star Quality Rating System via The Nursing Home Compare website added a new tool to help better identify elder-care facilities with extreme and troublesome care failures. When visiting the site, the most troubled […]

The post Inspections of Illinois’ Worst Nursing Homes Show Abuse & Neglect appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>
Steven M. Levin headshot
Content Reviewed by: Steven M. Levin

Since 1976, Steve Levin has been dedicated to helping people injured by others’ negligence. He is one of the first attorneys in the U.S. to prosecute nursing homes for abuse and negligence. He’s also helped write new legislation that governs the operation of nursing homes, including the Illinois Nursing Home Care Act. Moreover, Levin & Perconti has obtained the top three jury verdicts in nursing home negligence cases in Illinois.

SEE FULL BIO

Since 1976, Steve Levin has been dedicated to helping people injured by others’ negligence. He is one of the first attorneys in the U.S. to prosecute nursing homes for abuse and negligence. He’s also helped write new legislation that governs the operation of nursing homes, including the Illinois Nursing Home Care Act. Moreover, Levin & Perconti has obtained the top three jury verdicts in nursing home negligence cases in Illinois.

SEE FULL BIO

Key Takeaways

Nursing Homes Cited for Mistreatment Are Flagged with Special Icon on Government Website

In 2019, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service’s (CMS) Five-Star Quality Rating System via The Nursing Home Compare website added a new tool to help better identify elder-care facilities with extreme and troublesome care failures. When visiting the site, the most troubled homes, many with only a one-star rating, also display a red circle with a white hand inside. The stop-sign-like icon can be used as a way to warn families of long-term care facilities currently in non-compliance and those with a documented struggle to meet Federal and state quality care measures.

These facilities meet the following criteria:

  • Facilities cited for abuse where residents were found to be harmed (Scope/Severity of G or higher) on the most recent standard survey, or a complaint survey within the past 12 months.

OR

  • Facilities cited for abuse where residents were found to be potentially harmed (Scope/Severity of D or higher) on the most recent standard survey or a complaint survey within the past 12 months, and on the previous (i.e., second most recent) standard survey or a complaint survey in the prior 12 months (i.e., from 24 months ago to 12 months ago).

The data comes from government investigators’ reports that document evidence about the harm or potential harm of a resident. Nursing home inspection reports are public. Anyone can search for these facilities, review marked deficiencies, and read full inspection reports and citations simply by visiting the Nursing Home Compare website.

The data comes from government investigators’ reports that document evidence about the harm or potential harm of a resident. Nursing home inspection reports are public. Anyone can search for these facilities, review marked deficiencies, and read full inspection reports and citations simply by visiting the Nursing Home Compare website.

2019-2020 List of Illinois Homes Flagged for Abuse or Neglect

According to the state’s 2019 and 2020 inspection reports, facility profiles accompanied with the new red icon also show detailed complaint logs, dated investigation summaries, and the most up-to-date listing of the resulting citations. The average number of health citations Illinois long-term care facilities have is 9.6, while the U.S. average is 8.3. However, several of the homes and health care centers listed below have received significantly more.

Accolade Healthcare of Pontiac

300 West Lowell
Pontiac, IL 61764

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to safely transfer residents pursuant to the plan of care, resulting in falls … and one resident sustaining a displaced femur, which required surgical intervention.” 

Total number of health citations from the most recent inspection: 15

Alden Long Grove Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center

2308 Old Hicks Road
Long Grove, IL 60047

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure urine collection bags were secured at the correct level to reduce the potential of acquiring a urinary tract infection.” 

Total number of health citations from the most recent inspection: 18

Alden Terrace of McHenry Rehabilitation

803 Royal Drive
McHenry, IL 60050

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to advocate on a resident’s behalf to reinstate Social Security income and provide medically-related social services.” 

Total number of health citations from the most recent inspection: 15

Aperion Care Cairo

2001 Cedar Street
Cairo, IL 62914

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on record, review, and interview, the facility failed to meet professional standards of practice by not checking blood sugar levels before administering insulin and holding insulin without a physician’s order.” 

Total number of health citations from the most recent inspection: 44

Aperion Care Jacksonville

1021 North Church Street
Jacksonville, IL 62650

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to perform hand hygiene; conduct wound care and glucose monitoring and isolation procedures in a manner which prevents the potential spread of infection.”

Total number of health citations from the most recent inspection: 32

Bloomington Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center

1925 South Main Street
Bloomington, IL 61701

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure residents were free from physical abuse, and the facility failed to operationalize their abuse
prevention policy.”

Total number of health citations from the most recent inspection: 33

Bria of Belleville

150 North 27th Street
Belleville, IL 62226

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to provide timely turning and repositioning for residents reviewed for pressure
ulcers, resulting in residents developing new deep tissue injuries.” 

Total number of health citations from the most recent inspection: 35

City View Multicare Center

5825 West Cermark Road
Cicero, IL 60804

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to assess a need for an adaptive eating device for one resident, which resulted in the resident not being able to consume meals and having significant weight loss.”

Total number of health citations from the most recent inspection: 18

Forest River Rehabilitation and Nursing Home

321 Arnold Avenue
Rockford, IL 61108

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure potentially hazardous foods were cooled following HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) guidelines and failed to ensure dishes washed in the 3-compartment sink were rinsed prior to sanitation. This has the potential to affect all residents consuming food in the facility.” 

Total number of health citations from the most recent inspection: 11

Lakeside Rehabilitation and Healthcare

900 East Centennial Drive
East Peoria, IL 61611

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on interview, record, and review, the facility failed to notify the resident or
resident’s representative, in writing, of the reason for the transfer. This failure has the potential to affect all residents residing in the facility.” 

Total number of health citations from the most recent inspection: 28

Little Village Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

2320 South Lawndale
Chicago, IL 60623

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to account, and accurately reconcile, to determine that drug records are in order to account for all controlled drugs on medication carts. These failures have the potential to affect all residents living in the facility.” 

Total number of health citations from the most recent inspection: 10

Oak Park Oasis

625 North Harlem
Oak Park, IL 60302

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to supervise, monitor and follow the physician recommendations for treatment, for a resident identified by facility staff at high risk for unpredictable and unprovoked aggressive behaviors; and failed to follow their abuse policy and procedure for one resident involved in resident-to-resident physical altercations.”

Total number of health citations from the most recent inspection: 17

Symphony of Bronzeville

3400 South Indiana
Chicago, IL 60616

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on record, review, and interview, the facility failed to follow its policy for implementing an immunization program that ensured protection against influenza and pneumococcal disease for several residents; and failed to provide education regarding the risks and benefits of immunization; and failed to develop policies and procedures in identification and tracking and monitoring of all facility residents’ vaccination status in a sample of 54 residents. This deficient practice has the potential to affect all 274 residents residing in the facility.”

Total number of health citations from the most recent inspection: 25

Warren Barr North Shore

2773 Skokie Valley Road
Highland Park, IL 60035

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to ensure supervision during meals, failed to safely transfer a resident, and failed to ensure a resident’s bed was in a locked position to prevent a fall.”

Total number of health citations from most recent inspection: 38

Willow Rose Rehabilitation and Health

410 Fletcher
Jerseyville, IL 62052

Example of inspection report findings:

“Based on interview, observation, and record review, the facility failed to provide showers for several residents reviewed for assistance with activities of
daily living.” 

Total number of health citations from the most recent inspection: 32

This is only a random sampling of Illinois homes that have repeatedly violated care standards. Unfortunately, there are several more. To find out the CMS quality rating of your loved one’s nursing home visit Nursing Home Compare or review Illinois’ most recent nursing home violations list (through the Illinois Department of Public Health or IDPH).

Schedule a Free Consultation with an Illinois Nursing Home Attorney at Levin & Perconti

If you suspect mistreatment of a nursing home resident as the cause of their illness, injury, or untimely death, please contact Levin & Perconti, one of the nation’s most recognized and respected leaders in the areas of elder abuse and nursing home negligence litigation.

Our experienced legal team represents people throughout the greater Chicago area, the state of Illinois and nationwide, winning major lawsuits involving nursing home abuse and neglect. Please, contact us now for a FREE consultation at 312-332-2872 in Chicago, toll-free at 1-877-374-1417.

The post Inspections of Illinois’ Worst Nursing Homes Show Abuse & Neglect appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/inspections-of-illinois-worst-nursing-homes-show-abuse-neglect/feed/ 0 steven-m-levin-square Illinois Nursing Homes Fined For 2020 Care Violations https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/illinois-nursing-homes-fined-for-2020-care-violations/ https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/illinois-nursing-homes-fined-for-2020-care-violations/#respond Wed, 06 May 2026 10:53:00 +0000 https://levinpercondev.wpenginepowered.com/?p=591 State Releases Final Report of Illinois Nursing Home Violators in 2020 The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has released its last quarterly report of nursing home violators for 2020. This report dates October 2020 thru December 2020 and reflects quarter-four surveys and inspections. It highlights facilities cited for violations of the Nursing Home Care […]

The post Illinois Nursing Homes Fined For 2020 Care Violations appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>

State Releases Final Report of Illinois Nursing Home Violators in 2020

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has released its last quarterly report of nursing home violators for 2020. This report dates October 2020 thru December 2020 and reflects quarter-four surveys and inspections. It highlights facilities cited for violations of the Nursing Home Care Act, public links to access the survey reports, and the related fines. Facilities with the most significant and severe penalties accrued more than $50,000 in fines. They included Generations Rock Island, Aperion Care Chicago Heights, Stephenson Nursing Center, Stearns Nursing & Rehab Center, Metropolis Rehab & Healthcare Center, and Lakeside Rehab & Healthcare in East Peoria.

Accolade Healthcare of Paxton on Pells (Paxton)

  • Report: NH 20-C0258
  • Fine: $2,200

Accolade Paxton Senior Living (Paxton)

  • Report: NH 20-C0261
  • Fine: $25,000

Alden Debes Rehab & Healthcare Center (Rockford)

  • Report: NH 20-C0251
  • Fine: $2,200

Alden Poplar Creek Rehab & Healthcare Center (Hoffman Estates)

  • Report: NH 20-C0248
  • Fine: $25,000

Alden Terrace (McHenry)

  • Report: NH 20-S0340
  • Fine: $2,200

Aledo Rehab & Health Care Center (Aledo)

  • Report: NH 20-C0263
  • Fine: $25,000

Ambassador Nursing & Rehab Center (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-C0274
  • Fine: $2,200

Aperion Care Capitol (Springfield)

  • Report: NH 20-C0215
  • Fine: $29,400

Aperion Care Chicago Heights (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-C0280
  • Fine: $52,200

Aperion Care (Dolton)

  • Report: NH 20-C0222
  • Fine: $25,000

Aperion Care (Oak Lawn)

  • Report: NH 20-C0232
  • Fine: $2,200

Aperion Care (Spring Valley)

  • Report: NH 20-C0253
  • Fine: $25,000

Aperion Care (Spring Valley)

  • Report: NH 20-S0325
  • Fine: $25,000

Arbour Health Care Center (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-S0343
  • Fine: $2,200

Arcadia Care (Danville)

  • Report: NH 20-S0317
  • Fine: $27,200

Arista Healthcare (Naperville)

  • Report: NH 20-C0237
  • Fine: $2,200

Austin Oasis (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-C0267
  • Fine: $2,200

Austin Oasis (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-C0352
  • Fine: $25,000

Avantara (Long Grove)

  • Report: NH 20-C0189
  • Fine: $2,200

Bement Health Care Center (Bement)

  • Report: NH 20-C0296
  • Fine: $25,000

Berkeley Nursing & Rehab Center (Oak Park)

  • Report: NH 20-C0375
  • Fine: $6,600

Beverly Fam Foundation (Godfrey)

  • Report: NH 20-S0254
  • Fine: $1,100

Briarbrook Place (East Peoria)

  • Report: NH 20-C0240
  • Fine: $550

Burbank Rehabilitation Center (Burbank)

  • Report: NH 20-C0249
  • Fine: $2,200

Carlinville Rehab & Healthcare Center (Carlinville)

  • Report: NH 20-C0324
  • Fine: $2,200

Carriage Rehab & Healthcare (Rockford)

  • Report: NH 20-C0295
  • Fine: $27,200

Carriage Rehab & Healthcare (Rockford)

  • Report: NH 20-C0349
  • Fine: $2,200

Caseyville Nursing & Rehab Center (Caseyville)

  • Report: NH 20-C0288
  • Fine: $2,200

Champaign Urbana Nursing & Rehab (Savoy)

  • Report: NH 20-C0341
  • Fine: $25,000

Christian Nursing Home (Lincoln)

  • Report: NH 20-S0327
  • Fine: $2,200

The Clayberg (Cuba)

  • Report: NH 20-C0318
  • Fine: $2,200

Countryside Nursing & Rehab Center (Dolton)

  • Report: NH 20-C0250
  • Fine: $25,000

Crestwood Terrace (Crestwood)

  • Report: NH 20-S0300& NH 20-C0301
  • Fine: $27,200

The Estates of Hyde Park (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-C0211
  • Fine: $27,200

Flora Garden Care Center (Flora)

  • Report: NH 20-C0353
  • Fine: $25,000

Forest City Rehab & Nursing Center (Rockford)

  • Report: NH 20-C0264& NH 20-S0247
  • Fine: $25,000

Generations (Elmwood Park)

  • Report: NH 20-C0217
  • Fine: $500

Generations (Peoria)

  • Report: NH 20-C0310
  • Fine: $25,000

Generations (Rock Island)

  • Report: NH 20-S0293& NH 20-C0294
  • Fine: $52,200

Grosse Pointe Manor (Niles)

  • Report: NH 20-C0306
  • Fine: $4,400

The Grove of Fox Valley (Aurora)

  • Report: NH 20-C0271
  • Fine: $25,000

Heather Health Care Center (Harvey)

  • Report: NH 20-C0231
  • Fine: $25,000

Heritage Health (Jacksonville)

  • Report: NH 20-C0307
  • Fine: $2,200

Heritage Health (Mt. Zion)

  • Report: NH 20-C0262
  • Fine: $2,200

Heritage Health (Springfield)

  • Report: NH 20-C0245
  • Fine: $2,200

Highland Health Care Center (Highland)

  • Report: NH 20-C0378
  • Fine: $2,200

Hilltop Skilled Nursing & Rehab (Charleston)

  • Report: NH 20-C0224
  • Fine: $25,000

Hilltop Skilled Nursing & Rehab (Charleston)

  • Report: NH 20-C0309
  • Fine: $2,200

Integrity Healthcare (Alton)

  • Report: NH 20-C0238
  • Fine: $2,200

Integrity Healthcare (Alton)

  • Report: NH 20-C0333
  • Fine: $2,200

Integrity Healthcare (Belleville)

  • Report: NH 20-C0328
  • Fine: $2,200

Lake Cook Rehab & Healthcare (Northbrook)

  • Report: NH 20-C0220
  • Fine: $2,200

Lakeside Rehab & Healthcare (East Peoria)

  • Report: NH 20-C0259
  • Fine: $50,000

Lexington (Chicago Ridge)

  • Reports: NH 20-C0354& NH 20-S0355
  • Fine: $2,200

Lexington (Orland Park)

  • Report: NH 20-C0273
  • Fine: $2,200

Loft Rehab & Nursing (Canton)

  • Report: NH 20-C0338
  • Fine: $2,200

Loft Rehab & Nursing (Normal)

  • Report: NH 20-C0358
  • Fine: $2,200

Manor Court (Clinton)

  • Report: NH 20-S0346
  • Fine: $2,200

Manor Court (Maryville)

  • Report: NH 20-C0255
  • Fine: $25,000

Mattoon Rehab & Healthcare Center (Mattoon)

  • Report: NH 20-C0290
  • Fine: $2,200

Mattoon Rehab & Healthcare Center (Mattoon)

  • Report: NH 20-C0312
  • Fine: $2,200

Mayfield Health Center (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-C0216
  • No Fine

McLean County Nursing Home (Normal)

  • Report: NH 20-C0266
  • Fine: $25,000

Metropolis Rehab & HCC (Metropolis)

  • Report: NH 20-C0289
  • Fine: $50,000

Michaelsen Health Center (Batavia)

  • Reports: NH 20-S0362& NH 20-C0363
  • Fine: $25,000

Mount Vernon Health Care Center (Mount Vernon)

  • Report: NH 20-C0292
  • Fine: $25,000

Moweaqua Rehab & Healthcare Center

  • Report: NH 20-C0212
  • Fine: $2,200

Moweaqua Rehabilitation & Health Care Center (Moweaqua)

  • Report: NH 20-S0357
  • Fine: $25,000

Mulberry Manor (Anna)

  • Report: NH 20-C0265
  • Fine: $10,000

Mulberry Manor (Anna)

  • Report: NH 20-C0367
  • Fine: $10,000

Nokomis Rehab & Health Care Center (Nokomis)

  • Report: NH 20-C0275
  • Fine: $2,200

Oak Lawn Respiratory & Rehab (Oaklawn)

  • Report: NH 20-C0322
  • Fine: $2,200

Paul House & Health Care Center (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-C0308
  • Fine: $25,000

Peterson Park Health Care Center (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-C0342
  • Fine: $2,200

Red Bud Regional Care (Red Bud)

  • Report: NH 20-C0272
  • Fine: $25,000

Red Bud Regional Care (Red Bud)

  • Report: NH 20-C0287
  • Fine: $2,200

Rest Haven Manor (Albion)

  • Report: NH 20-C0305
  • Fine: $25,000

Rochelle Rehab & Healthcare Center (Rochelle)

  • Report: NH 20-C0239
  • Fine: $25,000

Rolling Hills Manor (Zion)

  • Report: NH 20-S0361
  • Fine: $2,200

Serenity (Moline)

  • Report: NH 20-C0283
  • Fine: $2,200

Shawnee Senior Living (Herrin)

  • Report: NH 20-C0241
  • Fine: $2,200

Shawnee Senior Living (Herrin)

  • Report: NH 20-S0291& NH 20-C0303
  • Fine: $25,000

Shelbyville Manor (Shelbyville)

  • Report: NH 20-C0388
  • Fine: $25,000

South Suburban Rehab Center (Homewood)

  • Report: NH 20-C0243
  • Fine: $25,000

South Suburban Rehab Center (Homewood)

  • Report: NH 20-C0244
  • Fine: $1,100

Southgate Health Care Center (Metropolis)

  • Report: NH 20-S0234
  • Fine: $25,000

Southpoint Nursing & Rehab Center (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-C0311
  • Fine: $25,000

St. James Wellness Rehab Villas (Crete)

  • Report: NH 20-C0337
  • Fine: $25,000

Stearns Nursing & Rehab Center (Granite City)

  • Report: NH 20-C0269
  • Fine: $52,000

Stearns Nursing & Rehab Center (Granite City)

  • Report: NH 20-C0316
  • Fine: $25,000

Stephenson Nursing Center (Freeport)

  • Reports: NH 20-M0344& NH 20-M0345
  • Fine: $50,000

Sunset Home (Quincy)

  • Report: NH 20-M0286
  • Fine: $25,000

Symphony at 87th Street (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-C0246
  • Fine: $2,200

Symphony at Aria (Hillside)

  • Report: NH 20-C0372
  • Fine: $2,200

Symphony of Morgan Park (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-C0270
  • Fine: $2,200

Symphony of Orchard Valley (Aurora)

  • Report: NH 20-C0277
  • Fine: $2,200

Taylorville Care Center (Taylorville)

  • Report: NH 20-C0302
  • Fine: $27,200

Thrive Lake County (Mundelein)

  • Report: NH 20-C0257
  • Fine: $2,200

Timbercreek Rehab & Health Care Center (Pekin)

  • Report: NH 20-C0242
  • Fine: $2,200

Tower Hill Healthcare Center (South Elgin)

  • Report: NH 20-C0268
  • Fine: $25,000

Twin Lakes Rehab & Health Care (Paris)

  • Reports: NH 20-S0297& NH 20-C0298
  • Fine: $2,200

University Nursing & Rehab Center (Edwardsville)

  • Report: NH 20-C0326
  • Fine: $25,000

University Rehab (Urbana)

  • Report: NH 20-C0334
  • Fine: $2,200

University Rehab at Northmoor (Peoria)

  • Report: NH 20-S0320
  • Fine: $2,200

Warren Barr North Shore (Highland Park)

  • Report: NH 20-C0219
  • Fine: $2,200

Warren Park Health & Living Center (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-C0282
  • Fine: $25,000

Washington Senior Living (Washington) 61571

  • Report: NH 20-C0223
  • Fine: $2,200

Waterfront Terrace (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-C0330
  • Fine: $25,000

Westchester Health & Rehab Center (Westchester)

  • Report: NH 20-C0204
  • Fine: $2,200

White Oak Rehabilitation HCC (Mount Vernon)

  • Report: NH 20-C0276
  • Fine: $25,000

Winston Manor CNV & Nursing (Chicago)

  • Report: NH 20-C0313
  • Fine: $25,000

The quarterly report alleges the facilities failed in some capacity to operate within the care and safety standards set by IDPH and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Readers can view nursing home violator reports by the Illinois Department of Health here. Providing this information to the community at large may alert family members of a loved one’s heightened risk of neglect or abuse. The warning signs of nursing home abuse and neglect should never be ignored. Report any alarming findings immediately and create a line of questioning for administrators using the responses you received from your loved one. Nursing home owners, and possibly legal authorities need to act promptly so residents will no longer be at risk.

When you feel necessary, you can also request a free consultation with a nursing home abuse and neglect attorney at Levin & Perconti. Our attorneys investigate thousands of complaints each year involving assisted living, long-term care, and skilled nursing facilities that have failed to uphold adequate safeguards and responsibility in the greater Chicago area and surrounding communities in Illinois.

Illinois Nursing Home Violators Should Be Held Accountable

If your loved one is a resident at one of these facilities and a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, contact the skilled legal team at Levin & Perconti to discuss your case. Call us now in Chicago at (312) 332-2872 or fill out our form for a free consultation. We can start helping today.

The post Illinois Nursing Homes Fined For 2020 Care Violations appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/illinois-nursing-homes-fined-for-2020-care-violations/feed/ 0 How To File a Nursing Home Complaint? – Video https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/how-to-file-a-nursing-home-complaint-video/ https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/how-to-file-a-nursing-home-complaint-video/#respond Tue, 05 May 2026 20:41:24 +0000 https://www.levinperconti.com/?p=6320 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IyQCmImIR0&t=1s Video Transcript People often call us about wanting to see if they have the grounds to sue a nursing home or whether they can file a complaint against a nursing home without a lawyer. Number one, if you have a complaint against a nursing home in Illinois, there is an Illinois Department of Public […]

The post How To File a Nursing Home Complaint? – Video appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>

Video Transcript

People often call us about wanting to see if they have the grounds to sue a nursing home or whether they can file a complaint against a nursing home without a lawyer. Number one, if you have a complaint against a nursing home in Illinois, there is an Illinois Department of Public Health hotline that you can call.

They will take your complaint and they will investigate the complaint. Number two, in order to sue a nursing home, in order to get redress from a nursing home financially for the harm that has occurred, you need to consult a lawyer. When you consult a firm like ours, we review the facts. If, based on the facts that you tell us, we think there is a case, we’ll order the records.

Then we file a piece of paper in court called a complaint, which basically says we are suing you, nursing home, because you were negligent in doing the following things, and those things caused injury or death to our client. And that’s a complaint.

Levin & Perconti Can Help After Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

At Levin & Perconti, we’re a team of highly skilled and committed nursing home abuse lawyers in Illinois who fight to ensure you receive maximum civil justice for the abuse that you and your family suffered.

We can help you understand your reporting options, preserve evidence, prepare a detailed complaint, and even pursue a civil claim when abuse or neglect has caused harm. If you would like to talk with someone about your situation, you can contact Levin & Perconti at (312) 332-2872 for guidance.

The post How To File a Nursing Home Complaint? – Video appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/how-to-file-a-nursing-home-complaint-video/feed/ 0 How To File a Nursing Home Complaint? https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/how-to-file-a-nursing-home-complaint/ https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/how-to-file-a-nursing-home-complaint/#respond Tue, 05 May 2026 19:14:58 +0000 https://www.levinperconti.com/?p=6310 Filing a complaint is a protected right. Not only does it help your loved one, but it often leads to systemic changes that protect every resident in the building. Here is the step-by-step process for filing a complaint. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IyQCmImIR0&t=1s Start With the Facility Many issues, especially those regarding daily care, food quality, or minor administrative […]

The post How To File a Nursing Home Complaint? appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>

Filing a complaint is a protected right. Not only does it help your loved one, but it often leads to systemic changes that protect every resident in the building. Here is the step-by-step process for filing a complaint.

Start With the Facility

Many issues, especially those regarding daily care, food quality, or minor administrative errors, can be resolved quickly by talking to the staff directly. Federal law requires Medicare and Medicaid-certified facilities to have a formal grievance process.

  • Speak with the charge nurse or administrator: Start with the person directly responsible for the unit. If the issue isn’t resolved, move up to the Director of Nursing (DON) or the Nursing Home Administrator (NHA).
  • Submit a written grievance: Every facility must have a designated grievance official. Ask for their official form. Once you submit it, the facility is required to provide you with a written decision and a summary of their investigation.
  • Request a care plan meeting: You have the right to call a meeting with the interdisciplinary team, including doctors, nurses, and social workers, to address specific medical or behavioral concerns.

Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman

If you feel the facility is ignoring your concerns, or if you are uncomfortable speaking to them directly, your next call should be to the long-term care ombudsman.

An Ombudsman is a free, confidential advocate for nursing home residents. They are not employees of the nursing home. In Illinois, long-term care ombudsmen are independent resident advocates who help residents understand their rights, investigate complaints, maintain confidentiality, and work to resolve concerns. They can visit the facility and work to mediate a resolution between the family and the administration.

File a Formal State Complaint

For serious concerns involving health violations, safety hazards, inadequate care or possible neglect, you can file a formal complaint with the Illinois Department of Public Health. This agency is often part of the state health department or department of public health.

  • The investigation: A formal complaint often triggers an unannounced survey or inspection. State officials will enter the building, interview staff, and review medical records.
  • Citations and fines: If the state finds deficiencies, the facility may be cited, fined, or forced to submit a formal “Plan of Correction.”
  • Anonymity: You can choose to file these reports anonymously to protect yourself or your loved one from potential retaliation.

Reporting Abuse or Criminal Activity

If you suspect physical abuse, sexual abuse, or willful neglect, these are criminal matters that require immediate intervention.

  • Emergency services: If a resident is in immediate danger, call 911.
  • Illinois Department of Public Health: For abuse, neglect, or safety concerns involving a nursing-home resident, call the IDPH Nursing Home Complaint Hotline.
  • Law enforcement: File a report with the local police department for any suspected criminal activity.

Details are Important

A detailed complaint is far more likely to result in a successful investigation. When you prepare your report, try to include:

  1. Dates and times: Be as specific as possible about when the incidents occurred.
  2. Names and titles: Note the names and titles of staff members involved or witnesses who saw what happened.
  3. Physical evidence: If there are safety hazards like broken equipment or visible injuries, take clear photographs.
  4. Impact: Clearly describe how the situation has affected the resident’s physical or emotional health.

Levin & Perconti Can Help After Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

At Levin & Perconti, we’re a team of highly skilled and committed nursing home abuse lawyers in Illinois who fight to ensure you receive maximum civil justice for the abuse that you and your family suffered.

We can help you understand your reporting options, preserve evidence, prepare a detailed complaint, and even pursue a civil claim when abuse or neglect has caused harm. If you would like to talk with someone about your situation, you can contact Levin & Perconti at (312) 332-2872 for guidance.

The post How To File a Nursing Home Complaint? appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/how-to-file-a-nursing-home-complaint/feed/ 0 Illinois Nursing Home Chain Hit With Heavy Fines https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/illinois-nursing-home-chain-hit-with-heavy-fines/ Tue, 05 May 2026 11:41:00 +0000 https://levinpercondev.wpenginepowered.com/?p=589 Aperion Care Racked Up $367,000 in Fines For 2019 Nursing Home Violations In 2019, one Illinois nursing home chain, branded under the Aperion Care name, was fined nearly $367,000 by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) in response to failing to correct serious deficiencies in care and safety of its residents. Aperion Care has […]

The post Illinois Nursing Home Chain Hit With Heavy Fines appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>
Steven M. Levin headshot
Content Reviewed by: Steven M. Levin

Since 1976, Steve Levin has been dedicated to helping people injured by others’ negligence. He is one of the first attorneys in the U.S. to prosecute nursing homes for abuse and negligence. He’s also helped write new legislation that governs the operation of nursing homes, including the Illinois Nursing Home Care Act. Moreover, Levin & Perconti has obtained the top three jury verdicts in nursing home negligence cases in Illinois.

SEE FULL BIO

Since 1976, Steve Levin has been dedicated to helping people injured by others’ negligence. He is one of the first attorneys in the U.S. to prosecute nursing homes for abuse and negligence. He’s also helped write new legislation that governs the operation of nursing homes, including the Illinois Nursing Home Care Act. Moreover, Levin & Perconti has obtained the top three jury verdicts in nursing home negligence cases in Illinois.

SEE FULL BIO

Aperion Care Racked Up $367,000 in Fines For 2019 Nursing Home Violations

In 2019, one Illinois nursing home chain, branded under the Aperion Care name, was fined nearly $367,000 by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) in response to failing to correct serious deficiencies in care and safety of its residents. Aperion Care has 35 Illinois facilities, the majority of which have only one-of-five-star ratings by Medicare.

Most recently, Aperion made a $6 million offer to take over Rock Island’s Hope Creek Care Center. But Aperion’s reputation and questionable level of care residents may receive has alarmed both community and county board members. With a quick review through the quarterly violation reports for Illinois nursing facilities, courtesy of IDPH, it easy to identify why these Aperion Care facilities are fined so often, and also validate the concerns of the Rock Island community.

  1. Aperion Care Bloomington
  2. Aperion Care Bradley
  3. Aperion Care Bridgeport
  4. Aperion Care Burbank
  5. Aperion Care Cairo
  6. Aperion Care Capitol
  7. Aperion Care Chicago Heights
  8. Aperion Care Demotte
  9. Aperion Care Dolton
  10. Aperion Care Elgin
  11. Aperion Care Evanston
  12. Aperion Care Fairfield
  13. Aperion Care Forest Park
  14. Aperion Care Galesburg
  15. Aperion Care Galesburg North
  16. Aperion Care Highwood
  17. Aperion Care International
  18. Aperion Care Jacksonville
  19. Aperion Care Litchfield
  20. Aperion Care Marseilles
  21. Aperion Care Mascoutah
  22. Aperion Care Midlothian
  23. Aperion Care Moline
  24. Aperion Care Morton Villa
  25. Aperion Care Oak Lawn
  26. Aperion Care Olney
  27. Aperion Care Peoria Heights
  28. Aperion Care Plum Grove
  29. Aperion Care Princeton
  30. Aperion Care Spring Valley
  31. Aperion Care Springfield
  32. Aperion Care St. Elmo
  33. Aperion Care Toluca
  34. Aperion Care West Chicago
  35. Aperion Care Wilmington

The Consequences of Repeat or Severe Violations

The most common penalty imposed by IDPH is a $10,000 per violation civil monetary fine, but fines for violations of federal standards can range from $50 to $10,000 per day. Some of the more concerning and significant penalties against Aperion by IDPH in the last two years have included:

  • $75,000 for the escape of a resident and the strangulation death of another.
  • $50,000 after the body of a 64-year-old man with dementia was found in a river after he fled the facility.
  • $50,000 a when a 66-year old a man recovering from surgery was found unconscious in a pool of blood and died at a hospital less than an hour later. (Learn about Levin & Perconti’s representation of Mr. Jaime Hernandez’s family in this video.).
  • $25,000 for the death of a patient caused by an insulin spike after staff failed to measure his blood sugar.

The nursing home abuse and neglect attorneys of Levin and Perconti have successfully resolved a large number of cases against Aperion Care nursing homes and have much more pending. Our team has become very familiar with how Aperion Care management conducts business, their corporate structure, and their unspoken policy of understaffing and the allowance of neglectful practices by staff to continue.

Work With One of The Most Respected Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Legal Teams in Illinois

Levin & Perconti has achieved multiple million-dollar verdicts and settlements for individuals and families who have been impacted by nursing home abuse, malpractice, or neglect associated with intentional understaffing or unruly, yet conscious business decisions. Consultations with our attorneys are always free and confidential. Please call us at 312-332-2872 to set up a time to talk. Responses to inquiries are immediate.

The post Illinois Nursing Home Chain Hit With Heavy Fines appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> steven-m-levin-square Cardinal Health Alcohol Prep Pad Recall Lawsuit Attorneys: Infection Risks, Legal Options, and Patient Rights https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/cardinal-health-alcohol-prep-pad-recall-lawsuit-attorneys/ https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/cardinal-health-alcohol-prep-pad-recall-lawsuit-attorneys/#respond Tue, 14 Apr 2026 18:26:09 +0000 https://www.levinperconti.com/?p=6242 In March 2026, Cardinal Health announced a nationwide voluntary recall of its Webcol™ Large Alcohol Prep Pads due to contamination with a harmful bacterium known as Paenibacillus phoenicis. If you or a loved one developed an unexpected or unexplained infection shortly after receiving an injection, IV placement, blood draw, or similar medical treatment between September […]

The post Cardinal Health Alcohol Prep Pad Recall Lawsuit Attorneys: Infection Risks, Legal Options, and Patient Rights appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>

In March 2026, Cardinal Health announced a nationwide voluntary recall of its Webcol™ Large Alcohol Prep Pads due to contamination with a harmful bacterium known as Paenibacillus phoenicis.

If you or a loved one developed an unexpected or unexplained infection shortly after receiving an injection, IV placement, blood draw, or similar medical treatment between September 2025 and March 2026, it is important to understand the potential connection to this recall.

Levin & Perconti is currently reviewing inquiries related to this recall and helping individuals determine whether contaminated alcohol prep pads may have played a role.

These products are widely used across hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and at-home care settings to disinfect skin before injections, blood draws, and other medical procedures. Because they are used immediately before injections and invasive procedures, patients may be exposed without any visible warning and may never know a contaminated product was used. In many cases, the first indication of a problem is an unexpected infection following what appeared to be a routine injection or IV placement, with no clear explanation.

For vulnerable patients, contamination in a product designed to prevent infection can have devastating consequences.

What Are Alcohol Prep Pads Used For?

Alcohol prep pads are an essential part of healthcare. They are used to disinfect the skin before:

Injections:

Vaccinations and injections/shots (flu, COVID-19, pneumonia, allergy shots, B12, hormone therapy)

IV Therapy & Blood Draws:

IV placement, blood draws, and hospital infusions (including antibiotics, fluids, chemotherapy, and medications)

Lab Testing:

Diagnostic blood testing and pre-procedure lab work/blood work

Surgical and Minor Procedures:

Biopsies, suturing, abscess drainage, and minor surgical procedures

Wound & Device Care:

Wound care and medical device site preparation (catheters, feeding tubes, dialysis access, surgical wounds, pressure ulcers/bed sores)

Diabetes Care:

Insulin injections, glucose monitoring, and CGM insertion site preparation

Because these products are intended to kill bacteria and prevent infection, patients and providers rely on them as a first line of defense.

When contamination occurs, that protection is reversed. Instead of preventing infection, the product introduces bacteria directly into the body at the exact moment the skin barrier is broken.

What Is Paenibacillus phoenicis and Why Is It Dangerous?

Paenibacillus phoenicis is a spore-forming bacterium capable of surviving harsh environments and resisting standard sterilization processes. Unlike more common hospital-acquired infections, Paenibacillus phoenicis is not frequently seen in clinical settings, which makes unusual or unexplained infections following routine procedures more significant and potentially traceable to a contaminated Cardinal Health alcohol prep pad.

It can enter the body through:

  • Broken or punctured skin (such as injection sites)
  • Open wounds
  • Medical device entry points

Infections linked to this organism include:

  • Bloodstream infections (bacteremia) after IV
  • Central nervous system infections
  • Wound infections and abscesses
  • Eye infections
  • Abscess at injection site
  • Sepsis and life-threatening complications

For immunocompromised patients, even a small exposure can escalate into a serious or fatal infection. When a contaminated alcohol prep pad is used before an injection or IV placement, the bacteria may be transferred to the skin at the exact moment the skin barrier is broken. An infection can develop hours or days later, often without an immediately identifiable source.

Who Is Most at Risk?

The recall raises particular concern for high-risk populations, including:

  • Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy
  • Individuals with weakened immune systems
  • Diabetic patients with compromised healing
  • Premature infants and newborns
  • Hospitalized or long-term care patients

These individuals are more susceptible to infection and less able to fight off bacterial exposure.

"Patients trust that the most basic safeguards in healthcare will protect them, not expose them to harm. Alcohol prep pads are used at the exact moment the body is most vulnerable, just before the skin is broken. When a contaminated product is introduced at that point, the consequences can be catastrophic. For immunocompromised patients, it can mean the difference between a routine procedure and a life-threatening infection. This recall raises serious questions about how this happened and whether it could have been prevented. When preventable risks reach patients, accountability is not optional."

- Michael F. Bonamarte IV, Managing Partner at Levin & Perconti

Scope and Timeline of the Recall

The recall is significant in both size and reach:

  • Nearly 400 affected lot numbers
  • Approximately 170 million units distributed

Products sold across the United States, Puerto Rico, and internationally

Timeline

September 2025 – February 2026: Distribution of affected products

March 2, 2026: Customers notified of recall

March 18- 19, 2026: Public recall announcement

The scale of distribution means many patients may be exposed without ever knowing the product was contaminated.

How Do I Know If I Was Exposed to Recalled Alcohol Prep Pads?

You may have been exposed if you or a loved one:

  • Had an injection, IV placement, blood draw, or similar procedure between September 2025 and March 2026
  • Developed an infection shortly after treatment
  • Were treated in a hospital, clinic, nursing home, or received home healthcare

If you are unsure whether exposure occurred, a legal team can review medical records and investigate whether contaminated alcohol prep pads were used during your care.

Why This Recall Is Especially Concerning

This situation raises serious safety concerns because:

  • The product was intended to prevent infection, not cause it
  • Contamination may have occurred during manufacturing
  • The affected products were used in high-risk medical settings
  • There was a months-long window of distribution before recall

In other words, patients may have been exposed during routine medical care and only later discovered the issue after developing an unexpected infection with no clear source.

Potential Legal Claims Against Cardinal Health

Patients harmed by contaminated alcohol prep pads may have the right to pursue legal action.

Potential claims include:

  • Strict product liability: for distributing a defective and dangerous product
  • Negligent manufacturing: for failures in sterilization and quality control
  • Failure to warn: if risks were not disclosed in a timely manner

Under product liability law, companies can be held accountable when a defective medical product causes preventable harm.

Evidence That Can Strengthen a Case

If you believe you or a loved one was affected, it is important to preserve any available evidence, including:

  • Medical records documenting infection diagnosis
  • Lab results identifying bacterial infection
  • Records of treatment (hospitalization, antibiotics, ICU care)
  • Documentation of procedures where alcohol prep pads were used
  • Any remaining product packaging or lot numbers (if available)

Even if you do not have the product itself, medical documentation can play a critical role.

Potential Compensation

Individuals harmed by contaminated medical products may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical expenses and ongoing care
  • Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Long-term complications or disability
  • Wrongful death damages for families

Severe infections such as sepsis can lead to life-altering consequences, making accountability essential.

How Levin & Perconti Can Help

Levin & Perconti has over 200 years of combined legal experience representing patients and families in complex product liability and medical negligence cases. Cases involving contaminated medical products require careful medical and legal analysis due to the complexity of how infections develop.

We have long advocated for individuals harmed in healthcare settings. This recall represents a serious breakdown in safety involving a product used every day in medical care.

Contact Levin & Perconti for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one developed an unexpected or unexplained infection following a medical procedure involving an injection, IV, or blood draw between September 2025 and March 2026, it is important to speak with an attorney. Levin & Perconti is currently reviewing inquiries related to this recall and helping individuals determine whether contaminated alcohol prep pads may have played a role.

Our team will review your situation, explain your legal options, and help you determine the next steps.

Call us at 312-332-2872 or fill out our online form to get started.

The post Cardinal Health Alcohol Prep Pad Recall Lawsuit Attorneys: Infection Risks, Legal Options, and Patient Rights appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/cardinal-health-alcohol-prep-pad-recall-lawsuit-attorneys/feed/ 0 Switching Your Personal Injury Attorney Mid-Case https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/changing-attorneys-in-the-middle-of-a-case/ https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/changing-attorneys-in-the-middle-of-a-case/#respond Wed, 08 Apr 2026 16:26:35 +0000 https://www.levinperconti.com/?p=6189 In Illinois, you have the right to switch lawyers mid-case for any reason. Dealing with an injury after a car wreck, slip and fall, or other accident is stressful on its own, but poor legal representation can make your situation even more difficult. It can be frustrating when your lawyer is unreachable, unorganized, or does […]

The post Switching Your Personal Injury Attorney Mid-Case appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>

In Illinois, you have the right to switch lawyers mid-case for any reason. Dealing with an injury after a car wreck, slip and fall, or other accident is stressful on its own, but poor legal representation can make your situation even more difficult. It can be frustrating when your lawyer is unreachable, unorganized, or does not give your case the attention it deserves.

If you’re dissatisfied with your current representation, you can switch attorneys in your personal injury case. Our team explains how it works, what you can do, and how to find the right personal injury lawyer for your needs. Contact us to learn more with a free consultation.

Common Reasons People Switch Personal Injury Lawyers

When you hire a lawyer, you trust them to handle your claim to the best of their abilities. Unfortunately, some attorneys are underqualified or overwhelmed and fall short of expectations. There are many reasons why people decide to change attorneys in the middle of a case, including:

  • Communication issues: Unresponsive behavior, delayed calls, or ignored concerns and questions
  • Lack of legal experience or strategy: The lawyer seems to be disorganized, unqualified, or lacks a clear path to resolve your case
  • Unprofessional conduct: Being treated poorly, feeling pressured to settle when you don’t agree, or learning your lawyer is possibly mismanaging your claim
  • Stalled case progress: Your case shows no signs of moving forward or your lawyer is unsure what steps to take to progress your case

If you’ve communicated your concerns to your lawyer and no improvements have been made, it may be time to switch your legal representation.

How To Switch Personal Injury Lawyers in Illinois

You can switch personal injury attorneys at any time during the claims process, including before the lawsuit is filed and during litigation. Consider following these steps for a smooth transition:

  1. Secure new representation: Hire a new firm first to avoid gaps in your case or missing court deadlines.
  2. Review your agreement: Check your current contract for termination clauses and proper procedures.
  3. Formal notification: Send a termination letter clearly stating that you’re ending the lawyer-client relationship.
  4. Transfer the case file: Ask for a copy of your case file and give instructions on where the lawyer can send further information or communication.
  5. File a notice with the court: If a lawsuit is active, your previous lawyer must file a motion to withdraw, and your new lawyer must file a formal notice to officially take over the case.

Your new lawyer can assist with some of these steps, including reviewing the terms of your previous contract.

Will Switching Lawyers Hurt My Personal Injury Case?

While changing counsel doesn’t hurt your case, it’s important to understand the impact it can have on your claim, such as:

  • Changes to case timelines: It can take time for your new lawyer to catch up on the details of your case, which can add more time to the overall process.
  • Fees due to the lawyer: Your former attorney may still be entitled to a percentage of the legal fees for work already performed. The idea of having to pay double is a common misconception. In Illinois, legal fees are typically split between lawyers based on the work each completed.
  • Possible improvements: After switching lawyers, your new legal team may have ideas to improve strategies, gather key evidence, and strengthen your claim. This could potentially put you in a better position to reach a favorable outcome.

How To Find the Right Personal Injury Lawyer in Chicago

If choosing a new personal injury attorney in Chicago feels overwhelming, here are some considerations that can help you narrow down your choices:

  • Proven results: A firm with a history of successful settlements and trial wins shows that the firm has relevant experience and can take your case to court when necessary.
  • Local presence: Look for an attorney who is familiar with Cook County courts, judges, and local insurers. Also, having connections with Chicago police departments and medical professionals at local hospitals is invaluable for gathering evidence and testimony quickly.
  • Ratings and reviews: See what previous clients have to say about working with the lawyer or law firm. It’s a good sign if they talk about responsiveness, clear communication, caring support, and reliable legal advice.
  • Free consultations: Schedule a free review with the potential lawyer to ask questions about their legal services and how they might help with your case.

Financial Considerations When Changing Attorneys

Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means they are not paid upfront. Instead, their fee is paid as a percentage of the total amount they secure for your claim.

When you change attorneys in the middle of a case, your former lawyer may still be owed a fee, but Illinois law protects you from having to pay double. Under the legal doctrine of quantum meruit, each lawyer is only owed for their respective contributions to your case.

At Levin & Perconti, it will cost you nothing to work with our team unless your case is successfully resolved. Contact us to learn more about our services and what fees you can expect if you decide to hire our firm after leaving your former lawyer.

What Happens if My Current Lawyer Is Uncooperative or Refuses to Transfer My Case File?

There are legal procedures lawyers must follow, such as holding or transferring funds and providing you with your case file when requested. If your attorney refuses to transfer it, they may be in violation of the Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct.

Here are steps you can take if your lawyer continues to be uncooperative:

  • Your new lawyer can send a formal “Authorization to Transfer File.” Attorneys are more likely to comply if a peer is involved.
  • If your case is already in court, your new lawyer can ask a judge to order the immediate release of your file to avoid delays in your case.
  • Consider filing a complaint with the Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission (ARDC).

In Illinois, a lawyer generally cannot withhold a file for unpaid fees if doing so harms your case. Work closely with your new attorney to navigate this process and protect your rights.

How Long Does the Entire Process of Switching Lawyers Typically Take?

Switching personal injury lawyers typically takes about two to four weeks, but the overall impact on your case timeline depends on the complexity of your situation. The general timeline may look similar to this:

  • Right away: If your lawsuit is already in progress, your new lawyer will immediately file a “Notice of Appearance” or “Motion to Substitute Counsel” with the court.
  • One to two weeks: Your former attorney is legally required to transfer your case file promptly to avoid delays to your claim.
  • Two to four weeks: Your new attorney conducts a thorough review of evidence, medical records, and prior negotiations to get up to speed with your case.

Speak With a Chicago Personal Injury Attorney About Your Options

If you have questions about changing personal injury attorneys, why you may be able to switch, or even if it’s too late to change lawyers, our team has answers. With more than 400 years of combined legal experience and over $1 billion recovered in verdicts and settlements, we have in-depth knowledge of the legal process and how to help our clients.

Call 312-667-4033 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our team. We can review your case and offer guidance on switching lawyers.

The post Switching Your Personal Injury Attorney Mid-Case appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/changing-attorneys-in-the-middle-of-a-case/feed/ 0 Illinois Bill Could End Zoning Barriers for Group Homes, But Access Alone Isn’t Enough https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/illinois-bill-could-end-zoning-barriers-for-group-homes-access-alone-not-enough/ https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/illinois-bill-could-end-zoning-barriers-for-group-homes-access-alone-not-enough/#respond Tue, 07 Apr 2026 13:13:46 +0000 https://www.levinperconti.com/?p=6179 Illinois lawmakers are advancing legislation that could significantly change how adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities access housing. House Bill 1843 aims to prevent local zoning laws from blocking Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILAs). The bill addresses a real problem. Across Illinois, municipalities have used zoning rules to delay or deny these homes, leaving families […]

The post Illinois Bill Could End Zoning Barriers for Group Homes, But Access Alone Isn’t Enough appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>

Key Takeaways

Illinois lawmakers are advancing legislation that could significantly change how adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities access housing. House Bill 1843 aims to prevent local zoning laws from blocking Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILAs).

The bill addresses a real problem. Across Illinois, municipalities have used zoning rules to delay or deny these homes, leaving families waiting months, or sometimes years, for placement.

But while the conversation has largely focused on access, there’s another side to this issue that cannot be ignored: what happens after those homes open?

What Are CILAs?

 

Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILAs) are small, community-based group homes that provide support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These settings are designed to promote independence while ensuring residents receive necessary supervision, medical care, and daily living assistance.

Related reading: How Does One Qualify or Receive Placement in a CILA Group Home?

What the Bill Gets Right

CILAs exist to give adults with disabilities the opportunity to live in community-based settings, with the support they need to live as independently as possible, often when their family is no longer able to care for them.

Under current zoning practices, providers are often required to:

  • Seek special use permits 
  • Comply with arbitrary distance requirements 
  • Limit the number of residents 

These are hurdles that typical homeowners never face. And in many cases, they raise serious concerns under the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibit discrimination in housing.

At its core, HB1843 is about ensuring that adults with disabilities are not treated differently when it comes to where they can live.

The Part of the Conversation That’s Missing

At Levin & Perconti, we are experienced group home abuse lawyers and we’ve spent years representing families whose loved ones were harmed in CILA settings. And that experience shapes how we view legislation like this. While expanding access to housing is critical, access alone does not guarantee safety.

We have seen cases where:

  • Homes were understaffed 
  • Staff were poorly trained or inadequately supervised 
  • Residents’ medical or behavioral needs were not properly monitored 
  • Residents have suffered catastrophic, life-altering injuries, some resulting in death

In one case we handled, a young man with autism had a condition that caused compulsive water consumption. His care plan required strict monitoring of his fluid intake. Staff failed to follow those safeguards, ignored clear warning signs, and did not seek medical care as his condition worsened. He died from water intoxication.

We secured a $6 million settlement for his family.

In another case, a single staff member was responsible for 16 residents during mealtime. One resident required one-on-one supervision due to a known choking risk; but that supervision wasn’t provided. The resident choked and died.

These are not just isolated incidents. They are reminders that when systems fail, the consequences fall on individuals who often cannot advocate for themselves.

“Adults with disabilities have a right to live in these homes, but they also have a right to be safe once they get there.” – Margaret Battersby Black, Managing Partner

Access and Accountability Must Go Together

It’s easy to frame this issue as a debate between:

  • Expanding housing
    vs. 
  • Regulating providers 

The reality is: both can fail at the same time.

Municipalities can create unlawful barriers that prevent homes from opening. And providers can fall short of their duty to protect the residents once those homes exist.

“Adults with disabilities have the same right to live in the community as anyone else,” says Levin & Perconti Managing Partner Mike Bonamarte. “But that right has to include the right to be safe. We’ve seen what happens when that piece is missing.”

Where Levin & Perconti Stands on House Bill 1843

We support efforts to remove discriminatory zoning barriers and expand access to housing for adults with disabilities.

But our work has shown that access must be matched with accountability. When group homes are understaffed, undertrained, or fail to meet basic standards of care, the consequences can be devastating.

That’s why we continue to represent families, hold providers accountable, and advocate for stronger oversight.

Moving Forward

House Bill 1843 is an important step toward expanding access to community-based living.

But true progress means more than opening doors. It means ensuring the people who walk through them are safe.

Adults with disabilities deserve both.

If your loved one has been harmed in a group home setting, our team is here to help. Fill out Levin & Perconti’s consultation form or call us at 312-332-2872 for a free consultation.

Read On:

The post Illinois Bill Could End Zoning Barriers for Group Homes, But Access Alone Isn’t Enough appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/illinois-bill-could-end-zoning-barriers-for-group-homes-access-alone-not-enough/feed/ 0 What Happens if the Umbilical Cord Is Around the Baby’s Neck? https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/nuchal-cord-is-wrapped-around-babys-neck/ https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/nuchal-cord-is-wrapped-around-babys-neck/#respond Tue, 31 Mar 2026 14:51:50 +0000 https://www.levinperconti.com/?p=6167 When the umbilical cord wraps around a baby’s neck, doctors refer to the condition as a nuchal cord. This happens when the cord forms a loop around the baby’s neck while the baby is moving in the womb. The umbilical cord plays an important role during pregnancy because it carries oxygen and nutrients from the […]

The post What Happens if the Umbilical Cord Is Around the Baby’s Neck? appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>

When the umbilical cord wraps around a baby’s neck, doctors refer to the condition as a nuchal cord. This happens when the cord forms a loop around the baby’s neck while the baby is moving in the womb. The umbilical cord plays an important role during pregnancy because it carries oxygen and nutrients from the placenta to the baby.

If you’re expecting a baby, hearing that the umbilical cord may be wrapped around your baby’s neck can be frightening. Many parents imagine the worst and wonder whether their baby will be safe during delivery. Those feelings are completely understandable. The good news is that this situation, often called a nuchal cord, is relatively common in pregnancy.

In this article, we’ll explain what this condition means and when families may consider speaking with a lawyer if something goes wrong. If you have questions about a potential birth injury, you can also speak with an experienced birth injury attorney by contacting us online.

What Does It Mean When the Umbilical Cord Is Wrapped Around the Baby’s Neck?

The cord is designed to be long, soft, and flexible, which allows babies to move freely as they grow. Because of this movement, the cord may sometimes wrap around the neck once or even multiple times. Nuchal cords are fairly common and occur in about 20 – 30% of pregnancies.

In many cases, babies are born healthy even when the cord is present around the neck. Sometimes doctors notice it during an ultrasound, but it is often discovered during delivery. In most situations, medical teams are able to manage this condition safely during childbirth.

Why the Umbilical Cord May Wrap Around the Baby’s Neck

The umbilical cord may wrap around a baby’s neck for several natural reasons during pregnancy. As babies grow, they move, stretch, and change positions inside the womb. This normal fetal movement can sometimes cause the cord to loop around the neck.

Other reasons include:

  • longer umbilical cords
  • higher levels of amniotic fluid
  • very active babies can create more opportunities for the cord to shift or form loops

In most cases, this happens naturally and unpredictably as the baby moves throughout pregnancy. It is important for parents to know that a nuchal cord is not something they caused or could have prevented. Doctors and delivery teams are trained to monitor these situations and respond if concerns arise during labor.

What Risks Can Occur When the Umbilical Cord Is Around the Neck?

In many pregnancies, a nuchal cord does not cause serious problems. However, certain complications may arise if the cord becomes tight or compressed during labor or delivery.

One concern is cord compression, which can temporarily reduce the flow of oxygen and nutrients traveling through the umbilical cord. If the cord is wrapped tightly or pulled during delivery, it may also affect circulation. In some cases, this may lead to changes in the baby’s heart rate, which can signal that the baby is under stress.

Doctors and nurses watch closely for these warning signs throughout labor. They often use continuous fetal heart monitoring to track the baby’s heart rate and check for unusual patterns. Medical teams also monitor how labor is progressing and whether the baby is tolerating the contractions well.

It is important to remember that most babies with a cord around the neck are born safely. Still, if the cord becomes tight or compressed, careful medical attention is important to prevent potential oxygen deprivation during delivery.

When Can a Nuchal Cord Lead to Birth Injuries?

In most cases, a nuchal cord does not lead to serious harm. However, complications may arise if the situation is not properly monitored or addressed during labor. Medical teams are trained to watch for warning signs and respond if the baby shows signs of distress. Serious injuries may occur in situations when:

  • Oxygen flow is being restricted for an extended period of time
  • Medical staff failing to recognize signs of fetal distress
  • Doctors are delaying necessary medical intervention during labor

If these problems occur, the baby may face complications such as oxygen deprivation, brain injury, and long-term neurological conditions. These outcomes are uncommon. However, when they do occur, families may wonder whether the medical team followed appropriate procedures and responded to warning signs during labor and delivery.

When Medical Negligence May Be a Concern in Illinois

Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers in Illinois are expected to follow accepted medical standards of care during pregnancy and childbirth. These standards guide how medical teams monitor both the mother and baby and how they respond if complications arise during labor.

Medical negligence may be a concern if doctors:

  • Fail to properly monitor signs of fetal distress
  • Ignore warning signs during labor
  • Delay an emergency C-section when timely delivery is needed

In general, medical malpractice cases require showing that a health care provider breached the accepted standard of care and that the breach contributed to an injury.

When preventable birth injuries occur, families may seek compensation for damages such as medical treatment, long-term care needs, and other related losses.

Speak With a Chicago Birth Injury Lawyer if You Suspect Medical Negligence

Learning that your child may have been harmed during birth can be overwhelming, especially when the situation may have been preventable. Many families are already coping with the emotional weight of what happened and the challenges that follow. During times like this, having the right support can make a meaningful difference.

Speak with a Chicago birth injury lawyer to understand what occurred and what options may be available to your family. If you would like to talk with someone about your situation, you can contact Levin & Perconti at (312) 332-2872 for guidance.

The post What Happens if the Umbilical Cord Is Around the Baby’s Neck? appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/nuchal-cord-is-wrapped-around-babys-neck/feed/ 0 Federal Report Reveals ‘Alarming’ Misuse of Antipsychotic Drugs in Nursing Homes https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/federal-report-reveals-alarming-misuse-of-antipsychotic-drugs-in-nursing-homes/ https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/federal-report-reveals-alarming-misuse-of-antipsychotic-drugs-in-nursing-homes/#respond Fri, 20 Mar 2026 12:36:24 +0000 https://www.levinperconti.com/?p=6143 A newly released federal report has confirmed a troubling reality, one that we at Levin & Perconti have encountered far too often in our work with nursing home residents and their families. The Office of Inspector General (OIG) found widespread misuse of antipsychotic medications in nursing homes, including instances where these powerful drugs are used […]

The post Federal Report Reveals ‘Alarming’ Misuse of Antipsychotic Drugs in Nursing Homes appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]>

A newly released federal report has confirmed a troubling reality, one that we at Levin & Perconti have encountered far too often in our work with nursing home residents and their families.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) found widespread misuse of antipsychotic medications in nursing homes, including instances where these powerful drugs are used not for legitimate medical treatment, but to control resident behavior for staff convenience.

This practice raises serious concerns about patient safety, transparency, and the overall standard of care in long-term care facilities.

What the Office of Inspector General Found

The OIG’s findings reflect a pattern of conduct that extends beyond isolated incidents. Among the most concerning conclusions:

  • Inappropriate diagnoses: Some nursing homes are diagnosing residents with schizophrenia without sufficient clinical basis. This allows facilities to justify the use of antipsychotic medications while avoiding regulatory scrutiny tied to quality measures.
  • Use as behavioral control: Antipsychotic drugs are being administered to residents, particularly those with dementia, not as a last-resort medical intervention, but as a means of managing behavior.
  • Failures in oversight: Medical directors, prescribing physicians, and consulting pharmacists are not consistently identifying or preventing inappropriate use of these medications.

Together, these findings suggest systemic issues within certain facilities, where clinical decision-making is influenced by operational convenience rather than patient-centered care.

One of the most concerning aspects of the report is not only the use of these medications, but also how their use is being obscured toward families. By assigning diagnoses that may not be medically appropriate, facilities can remove certain residents from publicly reported quality metrics. The result is a system where reported data may not accurately reflect the care residents are receiving.

How This Medication Misuse Puts Nursing Home Residents in Danger

Antipsychotic medications carry well-documented risks, particularly for elderly individuals. These risks include:

  • Increased risk of stroke

Because of these risks, federal guidelines are clear: These medications should only be used when clinically necessary, and after safer, non-pharmacological interventions have been attempted.

The OIG’s report indicates that, in many cases, these standards are not being followed.

Managing Partner, Mike Bonamarte, commented on the OIG’s recent findings, “We see the consequences of this conduct in our nursing home abuse cases. Antipsychotic medications are powerful drugs with known risks, and using them as a substitute for proper care places vulnerable residents in harm’s way. Facilities that engage in these practices must be held accountable.”

An Experienced Nursing Home Abuse Attorney's Perspective

Unfortunately, the conduct described in the recent OIG report is not new. It is consistent with patterns we have seen in litigation and investigation over the years. Using medication as a substitute for adequate staffing, attentive care, and individualized treatment is not only improper, it is dangerous. Antipsychotics are a chemical restraint.

Our Founder & Senior Partner, Steve Levin, was featured in international news discussing the dangers of both physical and chemical restraints in July 2025. Speaking with investigative journalist Jonathan Moens, Levin delivered a chilling reality:

“If you have a patient that’s difficult to watch, that might come out of bed, that might come out of a wheelchair, the simplest way from their point of view, is to restrain them.”

But the use of restraints, including antipsychotic medications, is not a safe solution. “We’ve had some horrific cases.” Levin said. His comments were featured in Undark Magazine, Expresso, elDiario, and L’Espresso. His insights are helping drive international discourse about the dangers of physical and chemical restraints in elder care.

Residents in long-term care facilities are entitled to dignity, transparency, and medically appropriate treatment. Anything less reflects a failure of a system that should protect them.

What Families Should Know

Families play a critical role in protecting their loved ones.

If a resident appears unusually sedated, withdrawn, or significantly different in behavior, it is important that families ask questions about any medications that have been prescribed or adjusted.

Clear communication and informed consent are essential components of proper care, and families have the right to both.

Legal Accountability for Improper Use of Antipsychotics

The dangers posed by chemical restraints, including antipsychotic medications, are real. If you believe your loved one has been subject to chemical restraints in violation of the law, you may be able to file a case for compensation in response to this illegal and negligent action.

Levin & Perconti has a track record of securing justice for patients injured or neglected in cases of nursing home abuse. Successful settlements and awards include a $4.1 million verdict after a woman received mismanaged medication, as well as the highest nursing home abuse result in Illinois history of $12 million.

Contact us today for a free consultation for more information about your possible legal options.

The post Federal Report Reveals ‘Alarming’ Misuse of Antipsychotic Drugs in Nursing Homes appeared first on Levin & Perconti.

]]> https://www.levinperconti.com/blog/federal-report-reveals-alarming-misuse-of-antipsychotic-drugs-in-nursing-homes/feed/ 0