Having security cameras installed in nursing homes is a true debate in our day and age with several points of interest coming to the fore. These include the rights of those being filmed without their consent, including both patients and workers. The other issue has to do with how much of what is being recorded on video can be used in courts of law and used to build cases against those that are being mistreated.

Value Of Installing Cameras in Nursing Facilities

The obvious value of having a cameras installed in a nursing facility is their deterrent power against abuse and bad care. Some have given these cameras the name “Granny Cams” and most who have family in nursing facilities feel this is a positive step in reducing the abuse that goes on within these homes. Family members feel safe knowing they can review recently filmed data and decide how the particular home they are paying is working for the betterment of their loved one.

Downsides to having Security Cameras In Nursing Homes

Unfortunately there is always the issue of privacy as was mentioned in the outset of this article. This is in part because most employees feel they are being watched too closely, and that their privacy is being invaded as well. Many nursing homes do not like the idea because they feel it would be harder to retain good staff which are doing their jobs properly. Unfortunately this is not so true, as it can really cause many staff members who have been getting away with the abuse for a long period of time to be let go, thus causing the facility to have to replace that individual.

At this point in time, state legislatures are highly considering passing the granny-cam legislation, but for the time being the debate moves on. When cameras are installed currently, the operators must let those who are employed at any facility be informed that they are being monitored.

Another problem that is currently being examined is whether the need for higher cost of care should be placed on locations where cameras are in place. According to many nursing facilities, they feel that the cost of care should increase when there is monitoring of the patient going on.

If you have to put a family member into a nursing facility you should obviously check the history of the nursing home. A history of deficiencies or any citations from formal regulatory inspections will tell you that the location you may have planned on allowing to care for your loved one is far from satisfactory.