Failure to Disclose Service Limitations for Hospice and Long-Term Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to inform residents and their representatives about limitations in the care services provided, specifically regarding the inability to provide hospice or long-term care. A review of the admission packet signed by a resident showed that hospice services were listed as provided, and there was no indication of any service limitations. The facility's documentation did not state that residents would be discharged if they required hospice or long-term care, nor did it clarify that only rehabilitation services were offered. Interviews revealed that the resident's representative was not informed at admission about these limitations and only learned of them when the facility initiated discharge planning after the resident's condition declined and hospice care was needed. The resident in question had multiple serious diagnoses, including metastatic cancers and was considered to be at end-of-life shortly after admission. Despite this, the facility proceeded with discharge planning for hospice care, informing the family that the resident could not remain at the facility for hospice services. The Social Services Director and Nursing Home Administrator confirmed that residents needing hospice or LTC were assisted in finding new placement, but this was not documented in the admission materials and was only communicated verbally. The attending physician also confirmed that such residents were transferred elsewhere, further evidencing the lack of written disclosure to residents and their representatives.