When the Guardian Won't Cooperate: What Providers Can Do Next

Audience: Skilled Nursing
Topic Area: Patient Care & Quality Improvement

Live Webinar
December 2, 2026
10:00 – 11:00 a.m. ET

Continuing Education:
1.0 CE credit available for Administrators and Nurses.

Program Description

Healthcare providers increasingly encounter situations where a guardian's actions—or lack of action—can delay care, complicate discharge planning, or create barriers to payment. Knowing how to respond appropriately while protecting the resident's best interests and the facility is essential.

This webinar will provide practical legal and operational guidance for navigating challenging guardian situations. Participants will learn how to recognize warning signs, understand the legal rights and limitations of providers, document concerns effectively, and determine when escalation or court intervention may be appropriate.

Using real-world case examples, this session translates complex legal concepts into practical strategies that skilled nursing leaders can immediately apply to reduce risk, support quality resident care, and improve communication and decision-making.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this webinar, participants will be able to:

• Understand the legal rights and limitations of healthcare providers when working with guardians.
• Evaluate appropriate escalation options, including reporting mechanisms and court involvement.
• Implement effective documentation and communication strategies that protect residents and reduce organizational risk.

Speakers

Peggy Ferraro, J.D.

Partner

Peggy Ferraro combines extensive healthcare and legal experience to advocate for healthcare providers. Before becoming an attorney, she worked as a social worker and medical office manager, giving her firsthand knowledge of the operational and regulatory challenges providers face. During law school, she was a member of the Health Law Society and the Journal of Law and Health.

Rebecca "Becky" Hall, J.D.

Partner

Rebecca Hall brings more than 30 years of legal experience, including private practice and six years serving as an Acting Judge and Magistrate. Licensed to practice in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky, Becky is known for developing practical, creative legal solutions to complex healthcare issues.

Katie Van Lake, J.D.

Partner

Katie Van Lake earned her Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Arts degrees from the University of Toledo and is licensed to practice law in Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, and Connecticut. Prior to joining Stotler Hayes Group, she practiced federal civil rights litigation in Chicago. Today, she focuses on representing healthcare providers and helping organizations navigate complex legal and regulatory challenges.

Registration Fees

OHCA Members: $55
Non-Members: $110

Register today to reserve your spot.