Failure to Prevent Overcharge of Resident Personal Funds
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow its policy and procedure regarding the management of a resident's personal funds, resulting in an overcharge. A review of the resident's financial records showed that the resident, who had diagnoses including dementia, glaucoma, and bilateral hearing loss, was severely cognitively impaired and dependent on staff for daily activities. The resident's eligibility response indicated a share of cost of $1,133.00, but the facility ledger showed the resident was charged $1,867.00 for one month, resulting in an overcharge of $734.00. There was no documentation explaining the reason for this overcharge. Further review of the facility's policies revealed that any overcharge to a resident's funds should be returned to the resident or their representative. Additionally, the facility's policy required residents to be informed in advance of any changes to their bills. The finance manager confirmed the overcharge and the lack of documentation to support it during interviews and record reviews.