Carson City March 22, 2021
Local law enforcement has reported an increased number of unlicensed residential health care facility complaints recently. To help Nevadans who might fall victim to inadequate treatment/living conditions in such a facility, the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has provided recommendations and contact information to submit a complaint about a facility.
When DHHS receives a complaint alleging unlicensed health facility operation, investigators determine the type of potential violation and conduct an investigation or make a referral to another agency, such as local law enforcement or code enforcement. If DHHS conducts its own investigation to determine whether the services provided at the unlicensed location align with a legal definition for a health facility, DHHS may conduct an on-site investigation, issue an order to cease operation, fine the operator and/or require the operator to obtain a license. The Department licenses many facility types and investigates a variety of complaints as outlined on the website.
So far in 2021, DHHS’ Bureau of Health Care Quality and Compliance (HCQC) has received 26 unlicensed facility complaints. In 2020, there were 68 complaints received and investigated (some still open), and 62 complaints were received and investigated in 2019.
When a resident is receiving care in a licensed facility they benefit from:
• Trained caregivers
• Caregivers with background checks
• Necessary supervision
• Assistance with activities of daily living
• Regulatory oversight including:
o Medication administration
o Safe environment
o Nutritional requirements
o Proper care and services
o Infection control practices
o Documentation of care
Health care in an unlicensed setting increases the risk of neglect, abuse and potential exploitation by operators or caregivers.
Complaints can be filed online at healthfacilitycomplaints.nv.gov or by calling 702-486-6515.
If neglect, abuse or exploitation is suspected, Adult Protective Services can be reached at 702-486-6930 in Clark County or at 888-729-0571, statewide.
Licensed facilities in Nevada can be found by searching findahealthfacility.nv.gov