Family fights for access as Oconee County DSS changes mother's DNR status in nursing home

In a poignant moment during the County Council Meeting on January 7, 2025, a resident shared a deeply personal story that highlighted the struggles faced by families dealing with the complexities of healthcare and state intervention. The atmosphere in the room shifted as the individual recounted their experience with their mother, who had been placed under emergency protective custody by Oconee County's Department of Social Services (DSS).

The resident described a harrowing series of events that began with a call to 911 for their mother, who was in need of medical attention. After attending a doctor's appointment with their autistic son, they rushed to Oconee Memorial Hospital, only to find that their mother’s medical directives had been altered without their consent. The change from full code to Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) status raised alarm bells, especially since the family had hoped for a chance to gather together before making such irreversible decisions.

As the resident spoke, the frustration and helplessness were palpable. They revealed that their mother was now situated in one of the state's lowest-rated nursing homes, located 150 miles away, and that they had been barred from visiting her. A Christmas Eve attempt to check on her ended in disappointment when they were denied access, despite having recorded the encounter to document their experience.

This heartfelt testimony underscored the broader issues of healthcare access, family rights, and the emotional toll of navigating the system. The resident's plea resonated with many in attendance, drawing attention to the need for more compassionate policies and better communication between families and healthcare providers.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the challenges faced by this family were not isolated incidents but part of a larger conversation about the welfare of vulnerable populations in Oconee County. The council members listened intently, reflecting on the implications of such stories for future policy decisions and community support initiatives. The meeting served as a reminder of the human stories behind the statistics and regulations, urging a collective effort to ensure that families are not left feeling powerless in their most trying times.