Failure to Timely Return Resident Personal Funds After Discharge or Death
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to comply with federal and state regulations regarding the timely return of resident personal funds following discharge or death. Specifically, for two residents, the facility did not return the funds within the required 30-day period. One resident, who had diagnoses including cancer, high blood pressure, and diabetes, was admitted and subsequently passed away. Despite multiple inquiries from the family, the responsible party had not received the refund of $385.00 as of several months after the resident's death. The business office confirmed that billing is managed by a third-party company and acknowledged the delay in refunding the personal funds. A second resident, with medical conditions including diabetes, cerebral infarction, and high blood pressure, also passed away while at the facility. The responsible party for this resident was due a refund of $2,530.00. Although the business office stated that the refund was processed by the third-party company, the facility was unable to provide documentation, such as a copy of the check or a bank statement, to confirm that the funds were actually returned. Staff interviews confirmed that the personal funds for both residents were not refunded to the families within the required timeframe.
Plan Of Correction
The facility cannot correct the past. Resident refunds for R1 who expired 5/5/25 and R2 who expired 5/21/25. The facility will ensure all resident funds for residents who expired/discharged are refunded within the 30-day requirement. Business Office Manager and Wellsky Representative will be re-educated by the Administrator on ensuring resident funds are refunded within 30 days of discharge/expiration. Daily Business Office Meetings will be held by administration to review discharges and confirm if refund has been processed by the facility and Wellsky. The Nursing Home Administrator/designee will audit resident fund accounts for discharges daily for one month, then monthly for 3 months to ensure requirements are being met. Outcomes will be reported to the Quality Assurance Performance Improvement Committee for review and recommendations.