Failure to Schedule and Follow Up on Ordered Neurology Consultation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to schedule and follow up on a physician-ordered neurology consultation for a resident with diagnoses including polyneuropathy and anxiety disorder. The resident, who had moderate cognitive impairment and required significant assistance with daily activities, had an order for a neurology consult documented in the Physician Order Summary. Despite this, there was no evidence in the resident's chart that the appointment had been scheduled or confirmed, and the Social Services staff responsible for coordinating such appointments was unaware of the order until the resident personally informed her. Interviews revealed that the resident had expressed concerns about his symptoms and the need for a neurology evaluation, and staff acknowledged that the process for scheduling specialty consultations was not initiated as required. The facility's policy indicated that ancillary services should be scheduled promptly based on physician orders, with nursing staff responsible for notifying the appropriate department. The lack of timely coordination resulted in a delay in care and services for the resident.