West Virginia Bureau for Children and Families
NOTE: You are using an outdated browser. In order to view, use, and enjoy this site to the fullest, we strongly recommend upgrading your browser to one that supports web standards.
BCF Support Article
Who is required by law to report adult abuse and neglect (mandatory reporters)?
Category:
Adult Abuse and Neglect
Updated:
3/6/2003
West Virginia Law identifies certain groups as mandatory reporters. This means that individuals in one of these groups, who is aware of or believes that an incapacitated adult or facility resident is being abused, neglected or is in an emergency situation, must report this to the Department of Health and Human Resources immediately. The following groups are mandatory reporters:
- medical professionals;
- dental professionals;
- mental health professionals;
- Christian science practitioners;
- religious healers;
- social workers;
- law enforcement officers;
- state and regional long-term care ombudsmen; and,
- employees of any nursing home or other residential facility.
Mandatory reporters must report immediately to the local Department of Health and Human Resources, with a written report to follow within forty-eight (48) hours. In certain situations the report must also be filed with other parties.