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On April 3, 2024, Attorney J.P. Sawyer filed a lawsuit in Dale County, Alabama, against SpectraCare Health Systems, Inc., and Brookridge Apartments II, LLC, due to the death of one of their mental health residents who died due to hyperthermia – excessive heat due to a dysfunctional air conditioner. The patient was diagnosed with significant mental health issues which prevented him from safely living independently in the community. He was enrolled in a supportive housing program by SpectraCare and assigned to a residence in Brookridge Apartments in Ozark, Alabama. As part of the supportive housing program, he was to be provided housing, training, assistance, and monitoring by SpectraCare and Brookridge. In September 2023, the air conditioning was not working in the patient's apartment – only blowing hot air. He reported this to the staff. Nothing was done. He was found unresponsive in his apartment on the morning of September 8, 2023. Emergency first responders noted the temperature inside the apartment was 104 degrees when they arrived. The patient's body temperature was 107 degrees. An autopsy revealed his cause of death as “hyperthermia due to environmental heat exposure.” Attorney J.P. Sawyer focuses on pursuing claims against those who are responsible for but fail to take care of those who cannot take care of themselves. Whether nursing homes, assisted living facilities, group homes, or special programs like the one this patient's family trusted. It takes a special person with unique skills and experience to deal with these tragic cases. Attorney J.P. Sawyer has what it takes.  Please feel free to contact J.P. to discuss the facts of any potential case. Call us at (334) 475-3213 and email us at referrals@sawyerfirm.com.

We entrust the care of our loved ones to nursing homes with the expectation that they will receive the attention, respect, and support they deserve. However, the unfortunate reality is that nursing home residents are sometimes subjected to abuse or neglect, leaving them vulnerable and at risk. It's essential for families to be vigilant and aware of the signs that may indicate mistreatment, ensuring that their loved ones are safe and well-cared for. Attorney JP Sawyer’s experience litigating against nursing homes gives him some good insight into what to look for. Know how to recognize common signs of abuse or neglect in nursing homes and learn what steps families can take to protect their family members. Physical Signs Unexplained injuries such as bruises, cuts, or fractures Bedsores (pressure ulcers) that indicate prolonged immobility and lack of repositioning Signs of restraint, such as marks on the wrists or ankles from restraints or straps Sudden weight loss or malnutrition, which may indicate inadequate food intake or neglect of dietary needs Emotional Signs Withdrawal or sudden changes in behavior, such as becoming more agitated, anxious, or depressed Fearfulness or reluctance to speak openly about their experiences in the nursing home Unexplained changes in mood or personality, which may be indicative of emotional abuse or psychological manipulation Expressions of fear or discomfort around certain staff members or residents Environmental Signs Poor hygiene or unsanitary living conditions, including dirty bedding, unkempt living spaces, or foul odors Lack of staff presence or supervision, especially during high-traffic times such as meal times or bathing Unsafe or hazardous conditions, such as cluttered hallways, broken equipment, or inadequate lighting Medical Signs Failure to administer prescribed medications or delays in seeking medical attention for injuries or illnesses Untreated medical conditions or exacerbation of existing health issues due to neglect or lack of proper care Overmedication or inappropriate use of sedatives or psychotropic medications, which may be used to control behavior rather than treat medical conditions If you notice any of these signs or suspect that your loved one may be experiencing abuse or neglect in a nursing home, it's crucial to take immediate action to protect their safety and well-being. Here are some steps you should take: Call attorney JP Sawyer. Consult with an attorney like JP Sawyer who is experienced in nursing home abuse or neglect cases to understand your legal options and rights. He can help you navigate the complex legal process and advocate for justice on behalf of your loved one. Document your observations. Keep a detailed record of any signs or incidents of mistreatment, including dates, times, and descriptions of what you observed. Speak with your loved one. Have open and honest conversations with your family member about their experiences in the nursing home, and listen attentively to their concerns and complaints. Report your concerns. Contact the nursing home administrator or facility management to report your suspicions of abuse or neglect. Additionally, you can file a complaint with the Alabama Public Health Department. Consider alternative care options. If you believe that your loved one is at risk of harm in their current nursing home, explore alternative care options such as transferring to a different facility or arranging for in-home care. At the end of the day, our loved ones deserve to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion in nursing homes. By staying informed and proactive, we can help ensure that they receive the quality care and support they deserve, free from abuse or neglect.

As an attorney who focuses on cases against nursing homes for improper or inadequate care, attorney JP Sawyer knows it's imperative to shed light on one of the most pressing issues plaguing the industry: staffing shortages. Inadequate staffing levels directly correlate with compromised patient care, exacerbating an already dire situation for vulnerable nursing home residents. In recent years, staffing shortages have reached alarming levels nationwide, including in Alabama. According to data from the Kaiser Family Foundation, Alabama nursing homes reported an average of 4.09 hours of direct care staff time per resident per day in 2020, slightly below the national average of 4.14 hours. These figures fall short of the recommended staffing levels necessary to ensure high-quality care and meet residents' needs adequately. Do we have to be below average in everything in Alabama? The repercussions of staffing shortages are multifaceted and deeply concerning. First and foremost, insufficient staffing means that residents may not receive the attention and assistance they require for basic activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and toileting. Without an adequate number of qualified caregivers, residents may experience delays in receiving essential care or may be left unattended for extended periods, leading to heightened risks of falls, pressure ulcers, and other preventable injuries. Moreover, staffing shortages can compromise the quality of medical care provided to nursing home residents. Registered nurses (RNs) play a critical role in assessing residents' health status, administering medications, and coordinating care plans. However, when nursing homes are understaffed, RNs may be stretched thin, resulting in rushed assessments, medication errors, and inadequate monitoring of residents' conditions. This can have serious consequences for residents with complex medical needs, such as those with chronic illnesses or mobility impairments. Staffing shortages also take a toll on the emotional well-being of nursing home residents. Many residents rely on staff members not only for physical care but also for companionship and social interaction. When there aren't enough caregivers to engage with residents on a personal level, individuals may experience feelings of loneliness, isolation, and depression, negatively impacting their overall quality of life. Furthermore, understaffing contributes to high rates of employee burnout and turnover within the nursing home workforce. Caregivers who are overworked and under-supported are more likely to experience job dissatisfaction and fatigue, leading them to leave their positions in search of better working conditions. This perpetuates a vicious cycle of staffing shortages, as nursing homes struggle to recruit and retain qualified staff members, further compromising the quality of care provided to residents. As an advocate for nursing home residents, attorney JP Sawyer holds negligent facilities accountable for their failure to address staffing shortages and prioritize patient care. Through litigation, attorney JP Sawyer can seek justice for those who have suffered harm due to inadequate staffing and demand systemic changes to ensure that all nursing home residents receive the dignified and compassionate care they deserve. We welcome an opportunity to work with you and your clients in cases involving staffing shortages in nursing homes. Please feel free to contact J.P. to discuss the facts of any potential case. Call us at (334) 475-3213 and email us at referrals@sawyerfirm.com.

Emotional abuse in nursing homes is a silent epidemic, affecting vulnerable residents who often suffer in silence. While physical neglect and mistreatment are more visible, emotional abuse can be equally devastating. Attorney J.P. Sawyer, founder of the Sawyer Law Firm, has dedicated his career to shedding light on this often-overlooked issue and advocating for those who cannot speak up for themselves. The Hidden Crisis Nursing home residents, particularly the elderly, face emotional abuse that leaves scars on their hearts and minds. Verbal intimidation, ridicule, threats, and isolation are just a few forms of emotional mistreatment. These actions erode the well-being of residents, impacting their mental health and overall quality of life. Yet, emotional abuse remains underreported and under-addressed. J.P. Sawyer: A Compassionate Advocate J.P. Sawyer’s commitment to fighting for society’s most vulnerable members is unwavering. His compassion resonates with clients, many of whom have suffered catastrophic injuries or lost loved ones due to negligence. J.P. understands that emotional abuse can be as damaging as physical harm. He recognizes that residents’ cognitive limitations and fear often prevent them from seeking help. Landmark Cases and Impactful Advocacy J.P. Sawyer’s legal prowess extends beyond the courtroom. As co-lead counsel in a landmark case for “resident’s rights,” he secured a $4.75 million settlement against a major nursing home chain. This victory not only compensated the victims but also sent a powerful message: emotional abuse will not go unchecked. Navigating Complex Terrain Laws governing nursing home litigation are increasingly intricate. J.P. Sawyer’s dedication to these cases remains steadfast. He tirelessly fights for justice, even when legal hurdles seem insurmountable. His expertise has earned him recognition as one of the Top 10 Nursing Home Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers Association and a Super Lawyer in Medical Malpractice. Emotional abuse in nursing homes may be unseen, but nursing home abuse attorney J.P. Sawyer refuses to let it remain unaddressed. His approach combines legal acumen with empathy, ensuring that residents’ voices are heard. As we advocate for the unseen, we honor their resilience and fight for a safer, more compassionate future.

In the pursuit of justice for victims of nursing home abuse, technology emerges as a powerful ally. At Sawyer Law Firm, attorney JP Sawyer sheds light on technology's pivotal role in uncovering instances of abuse and bringing the perpetrators to justice. In an era where advancements in technology have transformed various aspects of our lives, its impact on exposing nursing home abuse cannot be overstated. The Digital Guardian Attorney JP Sawyer underscores the importance of technology as a digital guardian for nursing home residents. Surveillance cameras, both overt and covert, have become a crucial tool in monitoring the well-being of vulnerable individuals. With these watchful eyes, instances of physical, emotional, and financial abuse are captured, providing irrefutable evidence that forms the backbone of legal actions. Real-time Monitoring One of the key breakthroughs in addressing nursing home abuse is the advent of real-time monitoring systems. These systems allow family members and legal representatives to remotely access live footage and data, providing them with immediate insights into the conditions their loved ones are facing. The ability to intervene promptly in cases of abuse has proven to be a game-changer, preventing prolonged suffering and ensuring swift legal action. Electronic Health Records Technology not only aids in monitoring the physical safety of nursing home residents but also in tracking their overall well-being. Electronic Health Records (EHRs) have streamlined the documentation of medical histories, making it easier to identify patterns of neglect or mistreatment. Attorney JP Sawyer highlights instances where meticulous scrutiny of digital health records played a crucial role in building a case against abusive nursing home facilities. Social Media and Whistleblowing In an age where information travels at the speed of a click, social media becomes a powerful weapon against nursing home abuse. Attorney JP Sawyer shares instances where concerned individuals and whistleblowers utilized online platforms to expose wrongdoing within nursing homes. These digital platforms act as a catalyst for public awareness and legal action, ensuring that the perpetrators are held accountable. The Human Touch Attorney JP Sawyer emphasizes that while technology is a formidable tool, it should complement, not replace, the human touch. Regular communication, both with the residents and their families, remains essential. Compassionate legal professionals armed with technological tools provide a holistic approach to justice, ensuring that the human rights and dignity of nursing home residents are upheld. In the fight against nursing home abuse, technology stands as a beacon of hope for justice. At Sawyer Law Firm, attorney JP Sawyer recognizes the transformative impact that technology has had in exposing abuse and securing justice for victims. The combination of surveillance, real-time monitoring, electronic health records, and the power of social media has brought about a paradigm shift in how nursing home abuse is identified, addressed, and eradicated. As we move forward, technology continues to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the rights and well-being of our elderly loved ones, underscoring the importance of its integration into the legal arsenal against nursing home abuse.

Sawyer Law Firm, LLC has filed six (6) lawsuits in the past three months involving patient falls in healthcare facilities. The cases involve injuries and/or deaths sustained from falls in three nursing homes, two senior behavioral units, and a hospital. In all but one case, the patients suffered unattended and unwitnessed falls.  This fact pattern confirms that the nursing staffs at most facilities are understaffed. Medical research confirms a substantial increase in mortality for elderly individuals following a fall with a fracture. In many cases, the immobility that results from the fall triggers a down-hill decline, which often leads to depression, incontinence, contractures, and bedsores. We would love the opportunity to work with you and your clients in cases involving falls at healthcare facilities. Please feel free to contact J.P. to discuss the facts of any potential case. Call us at (334) 475-3213 and email us at referrals@sawyerfirm.com.

The holiday season is a time of joy, connection, and togetherness. For families with loved ones in nursing homes, finding meaningful ways to celebrate can be a heartwarming experience. At Sawyer Law Firm, we understand the importance of maintaining strong bonds with those residing in nursing homes, especially during festive times. Here's a guide on how to celebrate the holidays with your loved ones in nursing homes while also paying attention to the conditions and ensuring their well-being. 1. Plan Ahead Start by coordinating with the nursing home staff to plan your visit. Ensure you know any special events or activities scheduled during the holiday season. This collaboration will help you make the most of your time with your loved ones and enhance the festive spirit for everyone in the facility. 2. Create a Festive Atmosphere Bring the holiday spirit to the nursing home by decorating your loved one's living space with festive decorations. Simple touches like string lights, ornaments, or holiday-themed cards can make a significant difference. Check with the nursing home administration regarding any restrictions on decorations to ensure compliance with their policies. 3. Share a Meal Together If possible, plan to share a meal with your loved one. Whether it's a potluck-style gathering with other residents and their families or a cozy meal in their room, breaking bread together can create a sense of normalcy and warmth. Be mindful of any dietary restrictions or preferences your loved one may have. 4. Bring the Joy of Music Music has a magical way of lifting spirits. Consider bringing a playlist of your loved one's favorite holiday tunes or, if allowed, a small group of carolers to spread cheer. Music can be a powerful tool for creating a festive and joyous environment. 5. Personalized Gifts and Memories Gift-giving is a wonderful way to show your love and appreciation. Consider personalized gifts such as photo albums, handmade crafts, or sentimental items. These thoughtful gestures can make the holiday season more special for your loved one. 6. Observe and Communicate While celebrating, it's crucial to pay attention to the conditions in the nursing home. Take note of your loved one's well-being, the cleanliness of the facility, and the behavior of the staff. If you notice anything concerning, communicate with the nursing home administration promptly. Advocating for the well-being of your loved one is an integral part of ensuring their happiness. 7. Stay Connected Virtually If distance or other circumstances prevent an in-person visit, leverage technology to stay connected. Schedule video calls, share virtual holiday celebrations, and involve your loved one in the festivities remotely. Virtual connections can bridge the gap and bring joy to both sides. At Sawyer Law Firm, we understand the importance of family, especially during the holiday season. Taking the time to celebrate with your loved ones in nursing homes while being attentive to their living conditions is a meaningful way to create lasting memories. If you ever have concerns about the well-being of your loved one in a nursing home, don't hesitate to reach out to experienced nursing home abuse attorney J.P. Sawyer for guidance and support. Wishing you and your family a warm and joyful holiday season!

ENTERPRISE, Ala. (December 4, 2023) – Nursing home abuse attorney J.P. Sawyer has once again been recognized as one of the distinguished MidSouth Super Lawyers in the category of Plaintiffs-Medical Malpractice. This marks the second consecutive year that Sawyer has been honored with this prestigious distinction, reaffirming his exceptional commitment and expertise in the challenging field of Medical Malpractice Law. MidSouth Super Lawyers, a highly respected legal rating service, annually identifies outstanding attorneys who have demonstrated excellence in their respective practice areas. The selection process involves a rigorous evaluation based on professional achievements, peer recognition, and a high degree of peer evaluations. This recognition is a testament to attorney J.P. Sawyer's unwavering dedication to his clients and his outstanding contributions to the legal profession. Attorney J.P. Sawyer expressed his gratitude for being selected once again, stating, "I am honored to be selected again in the category of Plaintiffs-Medical Malpractice. Practicing in this area of the law is very demanding, but is also so rewarding to help folks who have been injured by medical negligence." ​Nursing home abuse attorney J.P. Sawyer has over 25 years of experience and knowledge advocating for individuals injured due to the negligence of others. In the last 15 years, we have recovered over $40 million for our past clients. This is no easy feat, but because we are passionate about standing up for those who cannot fight for themselves, we work tirelessly to obtain justice and the full amount of compensation our clients deserve. This recognition by MidSouth Super Lawyers further solidifies attorney J.P. Sawyer's standing as a leading attorney in the field, acknowledging his dedication to securing justice for those who have suffered due to medical negligence. For more information about attorney J.P. Sawyer and his legal practice, visit https://www.sawyerfirm.com/.

November 16 is National Rural Health Day, a poignant reminder of the unique challenges rural communities face. As we observe this important day, Sawyer Law Firm, dedicated to championing justice in nursing home abuse and neglect cases, reflects on the critical intersection of rural health and legal advocacy. The Rural Health Landscape Rural communities, often characterized by close-knit ties and picturesque landscapes, play a vital role in the American fabric. However, the idyllic imagery belies residents' healthcare challenges in these areas. Limited access to medical facilities, shortage of healthcare professionals, and economic disparities create a complex healthcare landscape. Nursing Home Vulnerabilities in Rural Settings Nursing homes in rural areas face distinctive challenges, with residents often experiencing difficulty accessing specialized care and facing prolonged response times in emergencies. The vulnerability of elderly residents is further exacerbated by the scarcity of oversight and regulatory scrutiny. Sawyer Law Firm recognizes the urgency of addressing these issues to ensure the well-being of our rural elderly population. Legal Safeguards and Advocacy On National Rural Health Day, we underscore the importance of legal advocacy in safeguarding the rights of nursing home residents in rural areas. Our team is committed to holding accountable those who breach the trust placed in them, ensuring that nursing homes provide the standard of care that every resident deserves, regardless of their geographic location. 1. Regulatory Compliance in Rural Nursing Homes Examining the existing regulatory frameworks governing rural nursing homes. Advocating for stronger regulations and oversight to address the unique challenges faced by these facilities. 2. Community Education and Empowerment Empowering rural communities with knowledge about their rights and avenues for legal recourse. Conducting outreach programs to educate families about signs of abuse and neglect and how to take action 3. Litigation as a Tool for Change Showcasing successful cases where legal action has led to positive changes in rural nursing home facilities. Discussing the role of litigation in holding negligent parties accountable and promoting systemic change. 4. Collaboration with Healthcare Advocates Building partnerships with healthcare advocacy organizations to address systemic issues in rural healthcare. Supporting initiatives that aim to improve healthcare infrastructure and access in rural areas. On National Rural Health Day, Sawyer Law Firm reaffirms its commitment to advocating for the rights of nursing home residents in rural communities. By combining legal expertise with a passion for justice, we strive to make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of our elderly population. Together, let us work towards a future where rural health disparities are addressed, and every individual, regardless of their zip code, receives the quality care they deserve.

The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) recently released its Long-Term Services and Supports Scorecard. The scorecard lists many recommendations and warns of significant gaps in long-term care for older adults that persist in all 50 states. It notes that the long-term care system failed to rebound more than three years after COVID-19 began. This is the first LTSS Scorecard that crunches data — using various publicly available sources, such as the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services, the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics — from the very height of the pandemic and beyond. The data-rich report factors everything from family care services to the long-term care workforce, equity in nursing homes, and emergency preparedness. The report concludes that even though the cost of home care has dramatically increased, the availability and quality of direct care workers have suffered. Minnesota and Washington (along with the District of Columbia) have continued to innovate with unique ways to support family caregivers at the state level. Minnesota (ranked first), Washington (second), and the District of Columbia (third) led the way, primarily due to their strong support for family caregivers. South Carolina (ranked 49th), Alabama (50th), and West Virginia (51st) are at the very bottom of the LTSS Scorecard. The LTSS Scorecard offers these critical recommendations for states to improve their support for long-term care: Bolster the workforce. Nursing homes and in-home care workforces must improve recruitment and training and increase pay to attract and retain skilled workers. Expand innovative models. Effective nursing home models with smaller facilities and private rooms can improve the quality of care and the quality of life. Address inequities. Make investments that close the gaps in access to quality care facilities. Support family caregivers. Prioritize support for family caregivers with paid leave and tax credits to assist with financial needs. Invest in caregiver infrastructure. Increase support and training for home health aides and home visits and update key Medicaid regulations. Build coalitions. Support age-friendly health systems allowing individuals to live independently with affordable housing and accessible transportation. Support innovation. Create comprehensive aging plans that can offer new approaches with things like smaller, more guest-friendly nursing homes. Mandate emergency plans. Develop sound emergency preparedness plans in every state to support nursing home residents in times of crisis. Some specific rankings of Alabama: Overall Rank – 50 Affordability and Access – 38 Choice of setting and Provider – 51 Safety and Quality – 41 Support for Family Caregivers – 48 Community Integration – 49 Rankings of Alabama related to quality of care in nursing homes: Hospital Admissions – 17 Residents with Pressure Sores – 33 Inappropriate Antipsychotic Use – 47 Staff Turnover – 15 Top Quality Ratings – 21 Staffing Levels – 35 Unfortunately, if your loved one has experienced abuse or neglect at the hands of an Alabama nursing home, these statistics may come as no surprise to you. But nursing home abuse attorney J.P. Sawyer can help make things right. We regularly pursue nursing homes for the sub-standard care of their patients. We can review your case with nursing home experts at no cost. Call us today!

On September 1, 2023, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (“HHS”) announced important new steps to crack down on nursing homes that endanger resident safety. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed a rule to set a federal floor for staffing levels so that nursing homeowners could not slash staffing to unsafe levels. If finalized, the proposal would require every facility to have a Registered Nurse on site 24/7, a certain minimum number of registered nurses and nursing aides to provide routine care, and staffing according to resident needs based on a robust assessment of the facility’s residents. To ensure affected nursing homes have ample time to hire necessary staff, CMS proposes that the minimum staffing requirements go into effect in phases. Staffing levels at nursing homes are closely linked to quality of care. For instance, a study of one state’s nursing facilities showed that even a 20-minute increase in staffing per resident day from a Registered Nurse was associated with 22% fewer cases of COVID-19 and 26% fewer COVID-related deaths in nursing homes. Other studies similarly find that higher staffing is associated with better quality of patient care and patient health outcomes. Chronic understaffing disproportionately affects facilities serving a higher share of residents from certain racial and ethnic groups. In recent years, there has been a disturbing trend toward private equity firms and other large corporate owners purchasing nursing homes and slashing levels of staff as a way to maximize profits. To improve nursing home safety in the short term, CMS also announced new efforts to improve enforcement of existing staffing standards, which currently require nursing homes to provide “sufficient” staffing and eight hours per day of registered nurse care. These actions will help address substandard care and strengthen accountability before the new minimum staffing requirements are enacted. The HHS Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) is also undertaking important oversight of nursing home performance, examining nursing home spending of taxpayer funds, inappropriate prescribing of antipsychotic medications, and emergency preparedness planning by facilities. In addition, HHS is announcing new steps to help expand the nursing workforce. CMS, in partnership with the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), announced a national nursing career pathways campaign. The campaign will help recruit, train, retain, and transition workers into nursing home careers as nursing staff. This plan will invest over $75 million in scholarships and tuition reimbursement. While these efforts will go a long way toward addressing problems within the nursing home industry, it will take time for the impact to be seen. Meanwhile, residents and patients are still injured and continue to suffer. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse attorney J.P. Sawyer deals with these issues regularly. It is what we do. We’re here to help.

Five nursing homes have been identified as the worst nursing homes in Alabama. These nursing homes were placed on the August 30, 2023, Center for Medicare & Medicaid’s Special Focus Facility Candidate List: Atalla Health and Rehab (Atalla) Diversicare of Foley (Foley) NHC Healthcare (Moulton) Oak Knoll Health and Rehabilitation (Birmingham) Signature Healthcare of Whitesburg Gardens (Huntsville) CMS and State Agencies (SAs) inspect nursing homes regularly to determine if they are providing the quality of care that Medicare and Medicaid require to protect and improve residents’ health and safety. When nursing homes do not meet CMS’ health care standards, these instances are cited as deficiencies, and the problems must be corrected. Most nursing homes have some deficiencies, with an average of six to seven per standard health inspection. However, some nursing homes have: More problems than other nursing homes (about twice the average number of deficiencies), More serious problems than most other nursing homes (including harm or injury experienced by residents) and A pattern of serious problems that have persisted over a long period. To address nursing homes with repeated cycles of serious deficiencies, CMS operates a Special Focus Facility Program. The five Alabama facilities were recently identified as candidates for this program. For a full list of nursing homes, visit https://www.cms.gov/medicare/provider-enrollment-and-certification/certificationandcomplianc/downloads/sfflist.pdf.