After devastating Fall River fire, here's how to look up if RI nursing homes are safe

Following the devastating fire at Gabriel House in Fall River, Rhode Island’s Department of Health has made nursing home inspection and complaint records accessible online, enabling families to check the safety of local facilities. Residents can search for nursing homes in the Department of Health’s database to find inspection reports and complaint investigation results dating back several years. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services provides additional quality ratings, staffing levels, and penalty information for these facilities. In a move to enhance public safety awareness, The Providence Journal launched a new database documenting violent incidents in nursing homes, covering three years of data from various sources. This database includes both resident-on-resident and staff-on-resident violence, offering a clearer picture of safety within these facilities.

The availability of these records is crucial for families navigating their options for elderly care. RIDOH conducts both state inspections and federal surveys, ensuring comprehensive oversight of nursing home safety. Access to these databases empowers families to make informed decisions regarding assisted living facilities in Rhode Island.