(1.27.25) First, Happy New Year to everyone! As of December 31st, 2024, I have retired from my position as Long-Term Care Ombudsman. Please feel free to contact the new Ombudsman, Lori Light (lori@alliancebltc.org).
I want to continue informing you about issues related to long-term care. Writing now gives me the freedom to express my thoughts without being overly cautious, as I did in my previous role. As the Long-Term Care Ombudsman, I always had to choose my words carefully to avoid causing any distress.
In this blog, I want to share some facts about Rhode Island's Electronic Monitoring Law in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. The law officially takes effect on January 30th, 2025. It grants residents the right to have security cameras in their rooms, provided they follow certain rules. Here are some important points to consider before deciding to install a camera:
You must fill out the Department of Health notification/consent form, which will be available at the facility.
The resident or their family is responsible for purchasing and installing the camera. If the resident cannot consent, a Power of Attorney, guardian, parent, or spouse can provide consent.
If the resident has a roommate, it is important to discuss the camera installation with them or their family. If the roommate refuses, the facility must make every effort to relocate the resident requesting the camera.
A sign must be placed on the door of the resident's room to indicate that a camera is in use.
The resident or their representative may choose to have the camera recording at all times or turn it off during specific periods, such as when interacting with family members, clergy, attorneys, or while receiving personal care.
The Director of the Rhode Island Department of Health may issue a statement of deficiency if a facility fails to comply with these regulations. This process may take time to be fully implemented.
If you have any questions or concerns, you can reach out to facilities regulations or the Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
I am happy to continue providing information to keep everyone informed.
Sincerely,
Kathleen Heren
A Special Note from Attorney Connelly
I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Kathy Heren on her well-deserved retirement! Throughout her remarkable career as Rhode Island's Long-Term Care Ombudsman, Kathy has steadfastly advocated for our elderly community, showing extraordinary commitment to their rights and needs. Her tireless work has led to meaningful improvements in the long-term care landscape in Rhode Island and has sparked positive changes beyond our borders as well.
I’ve always admired Kathy's expertise and relentless passion for her mission. My respect for her never wavered, even when we found ourselves on different sides of an issue. She’s widely recognized in the elder care community as a fierce champion for seniors and their families, bravely tackling challenges with grace and resolve. Looking back on my journey as a young elder law attorney in Southern New England decades ago, I can genuinely say that the lessons I’ve learned from Kathy’s wisdom have made me a more effective advocate for our seniors and their families.
The saying that someone leaves "big shoes to fill" couldn’t be truer in this case. Kathy's impact on the field is substantial, and her legacy is truly remarkable. However, I am confident her training and mentorship have prepared her successors to continue her vital work seamlessly.
We are pleased to announce that Kathy Heren will continue to play a role in the senior care community during her retirement by contributing to Connelly Law as a regular guest blogger. Her guest posts will further enhance our discussions and provide invaluable insights on long-term care and issues affecting seniors. Her expertise will serve as an essential resource for those navigating the complexities of elder care. Once again, we extend our congratulations to Kathy Heren for her outstanding career and the enduring impact she has had on our community.
RJ Connelly
Ms. Heren, who has recently retired as the Rhode Island State Long Term Care Ombudsman, leverages her extensive experience to contribute insightful guest blogs on critical issues affecting seniors and long-term care. Her writings in Connelly Law's blog section explore a wide array of topics she encountered in her professional journey, offering readers valuable perspectives and practical advice. It’s important to note that the insights and opinions presented in these blogs are those of Ms. Heren and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Attorney RJ Connelly III or any Connelly Law Offices, Ltd. team members. If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.
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