SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Public Health has fined Taylorville Care Center $10,000 (Statement of Violation), for failure to protect residents from abuse by another resident. The 98-bed skilled care facility is located at 600 S. Houston St. in Taylorville.

Department investigators learned that, during a 16-month period, a resident inappropriately touched confused residents, exposed himself and was found in other residents' rooms. On one occasion, he attempted to hit another resident over the head with his walker.

In the most recent incidents, investigators were told that, for two days, the resident had continuously exhibited inappropriate behavior and aggression towards staff, residents and visitors. The resident was twice sent to the hospital for psychological evaluation, but his conduct did not change and he was eventually discharged from the facility.

Department investigators concluded that the facility did not immediately assess the resident's condition and determine his most suitable therapy and placement.

A Department-ordered plan of correction required the facility to evaluate the care of a resident when there is evidence of abuse, to establish procedures to determine the most suitable therapy and placement for abusive residents, and to establish individualized programs to manage residents with aggressive behaviors and to properly train staff to administer these programs.

Taylorville Care Center requested a hearing on the Department's action. No hearing date has been scheduled.