File a complaint against a nursing home with the state nursing home oversight agency
File a complaint regarding deficiencies in a nursing home or inpatient facility with the relevant nursing home oversight department of the public health department.
How to proceed
- 1
Submit a written complaint to the state licensing authority
To the public health department, with a detailed description of the deficiencies (dates, individuals, incidents).
- 2
Unannounced inspection by the state licensing authority
The agency is investigating the complaint through an on-site inspection.
- 3
Decision and, if applicable, conditions imposed on the institution
Requirements to remedy defects; in extreme cases, closure.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 2 weeks
Official: max. approx. 3 weeks
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Complaint made only verbally, without documentation
- • Specific incidents, including dates and witnesses, were not described
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Residents of nursing homes, their relatives, and nursing staff in cases of misconduct or violations of care standards.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 2 weeks
Success rate
approx. 70.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Complaint made only verbally, without documentation
- •Specific incidents, including dates and witnesses, were not described
Common reasons for rejection
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.