Published: March 31, 2009 07:51 am      

Where to find help, more information

Several local and state agencies are available to help nursing home residents and their family members ensure they're receiving the best care.

-- For more information on specific nursing home ratings and inspections, visit www.medicare.gov/NHCompare.

-- To file a complaint, call (517) 373-9196 or fill out an online form at www.michigan.gov/bhs.

-- Health facility abuse hot line: 1-800-882-6006.

-- Citizens for Better Care is an independent, nonprofit advocacy group. (231) 947-2504, 1 (866) 485-9393 or www.cbcmi.org.

-- Michigan Peer Review Organization is an independent, nonprofit organization that addresses nursing home quality, Medicare issues and complaints. 1 (800) 365-5899 or www.mpro.org.

-- Michigan Department of Community Health licenses facilities and conducts nursing home inspections. (517) 373-3740 or www.michigan.gov/mdch.

-- Michigan Campaign for Quality Care is a nonprofit advocacy group. (517) 324-5754 or www.campaignforqualitycare.org.