Another Forced Arbitration Nightmare - This One in Florida
"Quality" Health of Fernandina Beach, Florida Forces Mediation Process on Alzheimer’s Patient
When Sandra Fisher’s Alzheimer’s disease progressed so much that was impossible for her husband to care for her, she was admitted to Quality Health of Fernandina Beach, Florida. Quality Health is owned by the M-K Management Services Corporation. As part of the admission process, the Corporation required Mrs. Fisher's husband to submit to a mandatory arbitration "agreement," so the Corporation could escape the justice found in the courts.
One day, while an aide was helping Mrs. Fisher to shower in a bathroom which was in state of serious disrepair, the shower handle broke off. Scalding water poured over Mrs. Fisher, causing severe burns. The burns were incredibly painful.
At first, the nursing home corporation agreed to cover Ms. Fisher’s costs through its own insurance ... but then changed their mind without any advance warning when they realized that the costs would be several thousand dollars. Because of the forced arbitration "agreement," Mrs. Fisher and her family are stuck with the costs - and the courthouse door is closed to them.
Nursing home neglect and elder abuse injuries are serious. You and your loved one have legal rights, and the nursing home has the responsibility to deliver a high degree of care. If the nursing home has failed to meet its responsibilities, and your loved one has suffered injuries, you can call me at (803) 808-9600 for answers to your questions.
