Failure to Provide Timely Dental Services to Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that residents requiring dental services received necessary and recommended care in a timely manner. One resident reported requesting dental services but did not receive them, with facility staff indicating that insurance coverage was an issue. A review of this resident's medical record revealed no documentation of any dental consultation since admission, and the Director of Nursing confirmed that no dental services had been provided to this resident. Another resident reported having a chipped tooth and was waiting for a dental appointment. Medical records showed a referral and examination note indicating the need for off-site evaluation and treatment, but there was no evidence that an appointment had been scheduled until after surveyor intervention. The Director of Nursing acknowledged that the appointment was only made following the surveyor's involvement, confirming the delay in providing necessary dental care.