There are both state and federal laws that protect the rights of nursing home residents. These include the patients' rights to receive good quality and attentive medical and personal care, regardless of whether they are privately paid or government subsidized residents. Unfortunately, however, abuse and neglect do sometimes occur in both nursing homes and long­term health facilities. In addition, problems such as unauthorized facility transfers and ill­treated medical problems can also occur. If you believe that you or a relative is being mistreated, you should immediatley inform the facility's administrator both orally and in writing. If the administrator does not properly address the issue, you should then contact the Department of Health Services. This organization can investigate the situation while keeping your name anonymous. For more information on abuse in a nursing home or health facility, please consult an attorney in your area.