Failure to Inform Resident of DME Coverage and Arrange Safe Discharge
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide sufficient preparation and orientation for a resident prior to discharge, specifically regarding the arrangement and coverage of physician-ordered durable medical equipment (DME), including a hospital bed and wheelchair. The resident, who had diagnoses of cellulitis and lymphedema and required assistance with mobility, was discharged home without receiving the ordered DME. The discharge instructions did not specify what DME was arranged, the company to contact, or the expected delivery timeframe. Medical record review did not show evidence that the DME arrangements were completed prior to discharge. Interviews with facility staff revealed that although the social services staff was aware the resident's insurance would not cover the DME, this information was not communicated to the resident before discharge. The social services director confirmed that there was no documentation indicating the resident had been notified about the DME ineligibility or the status of the equipment prior to or after discharge. The administrator acknowledged these findings during the investigation.