Gov. Pat Quinn is proposing reforms that would raise minimum staffing levels at nursing homes. It's an idea that's quietly being fought by the nursing home industry as talks resume this week in Springfield.
Numerous national studies have linked more nursing hours with improved quality of care. That shows up in fewer bed sores and less unexplained weight loss for residents of facilities with more nurse staff time.
Current Illinois rules require nursing homes to provide at least 2.5 hours of nursing care per resident each day.
Quinn wants to phase in more nursing care. By 2014, the minimum would be 4.1 hours per day for residents who need skilled care.
The proposal is part of a package of reforms aimed at improving the safety of nursing facilities.
Copyright 2010 Associated Press.
