How to File a Complaint About a Nursing Home in New Jersey
You never expected this. You carefully chose a New Jersey nursing home, hoping for compassionate care and a safe environment for your loved one. But now, you’re noticing things that don’t feel right. This guide will walk you through how to file a complaint step-by-step, who to contact, and what happens next.
- Your loved one seems withdrawn, scared, or anxious.
- Their hygiene is being neglected—unchanged clothes, bedsores, or dirty surroundings.
- Medications are being skipped or administered incorrectly.
- Staff members seem indifferent, overwhelmed, or even hostile.
The question is—what can you do about it?
If you suspect neglect, abuse, or poor conditions in a nursing home, you have the right to take action. New Jersey law protects nursing home residents, and multiple state agencies are responsible for investigating complaints.
When Should You File a Complaint?
Not every issue is a crisis, but certain warning signs mean you should act immediately.
Signs That Require Immediate Action
You should file a complaint right away if you notice:
- Physical abuse: Unexplained bruises, cuts, broken bones, or burns.
- Neglect: Malnutrition, dehydration, bedsores, soiled clothes, or untreated medical conditions.
- Medication mismanagement: Missed doses, wrong medications, or clear signs of overmedication.
- Resident isolation: Your loved one is being prevented from speaking with family or friends.
- Unsanitary conditions: Strong odors, dirty linens, pests, or spoiled food.
- Verbal abuse or mistreatment: Staff members yelling, belittling, or ignoring residents.
- Unexplained financial transactions: Suspicious withdrawals or pressure to change wills or power of attorney.
If any of these apply, do not wait—take action now.
Who Oversees Nursing Homes in New Jersey?
There are three main agencies responsible for investigating nursing home complaints in New Jersey.
1. New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH)
The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) is the primary agency overseeing nursing homes. If you have concerns about medical care, facility cleanliness, safety violations, or staff misconduct, NJDOH is the right place to file a complaint.
Contact NJDOH:
- Hotline: 1-800-792-9770
- File Online: NJDOH Complaint Form
2. Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman
The New Jersey Long-Term Care Ombudsman is an independent advocate for nursing home residents’ rights. If you believe your loved one is being neglected, mistreated, or isolated, the Ombudsman can help investigate and take action.
Contact the Ombudsman:
- Hotline: 1-877-582-6995
- File Online: NJ Ombudsman Website
3. New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs
If your complaint involves financial exploitation, fraud, or misuse of funds, the Division of Consumer Affairs can investigate.
Contact Consumer Affairs:
- Hotline: 1-800-242-5846
How to File a Nursing Home Complaint in New Jersey (Step-by-Step Guide)
Filing a complaint can feel overwhelming, but New Jersey makes the process straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Gather Evidence
Before filing, collect as much proof as possible:
- Write down details: Date, time, and location of incidents.
- Take photos: Visible injuries, unclean conditions, or medication errors.
- Collect documents: Medical records, billing statements, and emails.
- Get witness statements: Other residents or visitors who can confirm what happened.
The more detailed your complaint, the stronger the case for investigation.
Step 2: Choose the Right Reporting Agency
- For health, safety, or care complaints → NJDOH (1-800-792-9770)
- For resident rights issues → Ombudsman (1-877-582-6995)
- For financial exploitation → Consumer Affairs (1-800-242-5846)
- For criminal cases (physical abuse, assault) → Call local police
Step 3: Submit Your Complaint
- Online: NJDOH Complaint Form
- By Phone: Call 1-800-792-9770
- By Mail: Download, complete, and mail the complaint form.
Tip: If you’re filing online or by phone, follow up within 2 weeks to check on the status.
Step 4: Follow Up on Your Complaint
After submitting a complaint:
- An investigator may contact you for additional details.
- The facility may undergo an unannounced inspection.
- If violations are found, the nursing home may be fined or required to improve conditions.
Investigations can take weeks or months, so be patient but persistent.
What Happens After You File a Complaint?
After filing, agencies follow a structured investigation process:
- Step 1: Review & Verification – Officials confirm details of the complaint.
- Step 2: Inspection – The nursing home may receive a surprise inspection.
- Step 3: Action Taken – If violations are found, the facility may face fines, license suspension, or legal action.
- Step 4: Follow-Up – If no action is taken, you can appeal or escalate the complaint.
What If Nothing Happens? Escalating Your Complaint
If you feel your complaint is being ignored, you can:
- Contact a lawyer – An elder law attorney can take legal action.
- Go to the media – Local news stations often investigate nursing home abuse.
- Transfer your loved one – If safety is at risk, look for an alternative care facility.
Remember: You have the right to demand better care.
Take Action Today – Protect Your Loved One
No one should suffer in a place meant to provide care. If you suspect neglect or abuse in a New Jersey nursing home, don’t stay silent. File a complaint today and help protect not just your loved one, but others too.
File a Complaint Now:
- NJDOH Hotline: 1-800-792-9770
- Online Complaint Form: NJDOH Website
Your voice matters. Use it.