Failure to Provide Required Dental Services and Specialist Referral
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide necessary dental services to meet the needs of a resident who required evaluation and treatment by an oral surgeon. The resident reported ongoing dental problems that had not been addressed, specifically stating the need for an oral surgeon's evaluation and x-rays. Clinical record reviews showed repeated dental examinations over several months, each documenting numerous broken teeth and rampant decay, with consistent recommendations for referral to an oral surgeon for radiographic examination and extractions of teeth with poor prognosis. Despite these documented recommendations, there was no evidence in the clinical record that the resident was examined by or scheduled to see an oral surgeon. Interviews with facility staff confirmed that the resident had not been seen by an oral surgeon as recommended by the consulting dentist. The facility's own policy required dental care to be provided through a consultant dentist, yet the necessary follow-up and referral for specialized dental care were not completed. This lack of action resulted in the resident's dental needs remaining unaddressed over an extended period, as evidenced by repeated notations in the clinical record and staff confirmation.