Several nursing homes throughout the state of Iowa have been labeled as “hotbeds” for COVID-19, the virus that discriminates against no one and is particularly aggressive toward the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. The Iowa Department of Public Health announced that Heritage Specialty Care, which is located in Cedar Rapids, had 107 cases of COVID-19 as of Friday. The facility currently has 110 patients and 125 workers [Source: Des Moines Register]. While the source did point out that nearly half have been lucky enough to recover, some weren’t able to overcome the symptoms associated with the virus.
Carlene Edwards, 68, was one resident who passed away due to medical complications related to COVID-19.
The news source went on to report that nine other nursing homes in Iowa are also experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks. Trinity Center at Luther Park in Des Moines reported last Thursday that it had 25 patients and one staff member who tested positive. Three residents at the facility also died as a result of the virus. While most homes are taking the recommended precautions to help curb the spread of COVID-19, it is unclear just how far some homes are going to keep residents safe and well.
It is for this reason that you should try and stay connected with your loved one as much as possible. Although most facilities have closed their doors to visitors, even family members, that doesn’t mean there aren’t other ways you can stay connected. For instance, you can Skype or FaceTime with your loved one given they have access to a device that supports these features so that can you can see them and chat with them. In the event they don’t have access to a device, then a simple call is better than nothing.
If you are concerned about your loved one’s wellbeing or feel they aren’t being treated properly, you can always contact Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, P.L.C. so that you can discuss addressing the issue with one of our Cedar Rapids, IA personal injury attorneys.
Can the family of a nursing home resident in Iowa hold a facility accountable if their loved one passes away from COVID-19?
This is a common question many are now seeking the answer to. Unfortunately, the answer depends on the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death. For instance, if the facility failed to follow one or more guidelines that have been set by health officials and the lack of action contributed to your loved one’s passing, then the facility may be at risk of a lawsuit. However, because the COVID-19 virus typically targets older individuals and is difficult to contain once it enters a nursing home, the only way to tell if you have a valid case against a home is by speaking with one of our skilled Cedar Rapids, IA personal injury lawyers.
You can reach Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, P.L.C. at:
1921 51st Street NE
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
Phone: (319) 393-1020
Fax: (319) 393-4000
Website: www.eellsandtronvold.com
Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC 
