Sexual Abuse And Physical Assault In Pennsylvania Rehab Centers

Rehab centers should be safe and helpful places for people who are dealing with health problems, injuries or traumatic experiences. But sometimes, people who want to hurt others can turn them into a dangerous environment, putting the residents who need help at risk. 

At Bellwoar Kelly, LLP, our lawyers can help victims of crime get the support and compensation they need. Our Pennsylvania attorneys work hard to uphold the rights of our clients, looking out for their interests and making sure their voices are heard.  

Understanding The Rights Of Residents

People in rehab centers have the right to feel safe and respected. They shouldn’t have to worry about being treated badly or hurt in any way. This means they shouldn’t be yelled at, hit or touched inappropriately.  

Social workers are also mandated by law to protect the dignity and autonomy of residents. They cannot neglect or intimidate the people under their care, and they cannot hurt them as punishment.  

These regulations ensure that those needing rehabilitation services receive the treatment they need in a safe and supportive environment. By prioritizing a culture of safety and respect, these facilities can help residents focus on their recovery journey.

Recognizing The Signs Of Assault And Abuse

Abuse encompasses a range of harmful actions or nonactions that result in physical or emotional harm to patients or residents in care facilities. Physical assault and sexual abuse fall under this umbrella, each with distinct characteristics and warning signs.

Physical assault involves the deliberate infliction of bodily harm. This can manifest in various forms, such as slapping, pinching or improperly using physical restraints. The signs of physical abuse can include visible injuries like bruises, welts or broken bones.

Meanwhile, sexual abuse involves any nonconsensual sexual contact. This includes unwanted touching, rape, coerced nudity or taking sexually explicit photographs without consent. 

Physical signs of this mistreatment may include bruises around the breasts or genital area, unexplained venereal diseases, or torn underclothing. Behavioral signs include the individual reporting incidents of sexual assault or exhibiting distress related to such experiences.   

Our lawyers understand the profound impact of abuse on survivors. We are committed to helping them take action against their abusers, suing recovery houses that tolerate these behaviors.  

Legal Responsibilities Of Rehabilitation Centers

Rehabilitation centers have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their residents. To do this, they need staff members who are qualified and responsible. This means they should have the proper education and experience to care for the patients without harming them. The government has rules in place that say what kind of qualifications and experience staff members need to have to work in a rehab center.  

Rehab centers also need to be careful when administering medicine. Staff members must ensure that the medicines don’t interact with each other in a way that could hurt the patient.  

Preventing neglect is also a legal responsibility of recovery houses. Negligence in rehab centers can manifest in several ways, often leading to harm or increased risk for individuals involved. Here are some examples:  

• Poor supervision increases the risk of accidents or abuse  

• Inadequate staffing leads to insufficient care, delayed response times and increased risk of medical errors  

• Lack of security heightens the risk of harm from intruders and prevents timely intervention in emergencies  

• Inadequate staff training means they may lack the necessary skills to provide appropriate care  

Addressing these issues requires proactive measures, including adequate staffing, rigorous training and strict adherence to safety protocols. Regular maintenance of facilities is also a must to ensure a safe and secure environment for residents.  

Legal Process For Suing A Facility And Assaulter

If you or a loved one experiences assault or abuse in a rehabilitation facility, taking immediate action is crucial to ensure safety and justice. Begin by reporting the incident to the facility’s management to address the issue internally.  

If this does not lead to a satisfactory resolution, escalate the matter by contacting the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The agency can investigate the complaint thoroughly, maintaining confidentiality throughout the process.  

Victims of assault or abuse in rehab centers may seek compensation for the harm they have suffered. Programs like the Victim’s Compensation Assistance Program offer financial support to cover expenses incurred as a result of the crime.   

Working with a lawyer can help you determine if you are eligible for the program. Our experienced attorneys at Bellwoar Kelly, LLP, can do this for you and help you explore all potential avenues for compensation.  

Call Us Today And Learn How We Can Fight For You

Filing a lawsuit may help you get the financial support you need and also protect others in your situation. Call us at 610-344-7585 today to get a free case evaluation. You can also contact us through our website to know how our lawyers can help you fight your abuser.