Preventing Abuse and Neglect of Vulnerable Americans Act of 2022

Preventing Abuse and Neglect of Vulnerable Americans Act of 2022

This bill requires the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to publish specified information on its website relating to deficiencies of Medicaid intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities, including information regarding inspections, complaints, and administrative actions. The CMS must also (1) develop and publish a standardized complaint form for such facilities; and (2) convene an advisory council to recommend ways to prevent abuse, neglect, and exploitation in such facilities.

The bill also allows Medicaid and Medicare providers (e.g., skilled nursing facilities) to access, through the National Practitioner Data Bank, disciplinary information for affiliated physicians and other health care practitioners, as reported by state licensing authorities.

Bill 117 HR 8468, also known as the Preventing Abuse and Neglect of Vulnerable Americans Act of 2022, aims to address the issue of abuse and neglect of vulnerable individuals in the United States. The bill focuses on providing protections and support for those who are at risk of mistreatment, including elderly individuals, individuals with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations.

Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of a national registry of caregivers who have been found to have committed abuse or neglect, as well as increased training and oversight for caregivers to prevent future incidents. The bill also includes measures to improve reporting and investigation of abuse and neglect cases, as well as increased penalties for those found guilty of mistreating vulnerable individuals.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for increased funding for programs and services that support vulnerable individuals, such as adult protective services and long-term care facilities. The goal of the bill is to ensure that all Americans, regardless of age or ability, are able to live safely and free from abuse and neglect. Overall, the Preventing Abuse and Neglect of Vulnerable Americans Act of 2022 seeks to strengthen protections for vulnerable individuals and hold perpetrators of abuse and neglect accountable for their actions. By implementing these measures, the bill aims to create a safer and more supportive environment for all Americans.