Unlicensed Transport Driver Provided Resident Transportation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to comply with Federal, State, and local laws and professional standards by allowing a Transport Driver with a suspended driver's license to transport four residents to physician appointments. Documentation and interviews revealed that the Transport Driver's license was suspended due to legal issues, including charges for driving while license suspended/revoked and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. Despite the facility's policy requiring verification and maintenance of valid licensure for personnel, the Transport Driver continued to operate the facility's van and transport residents on multiple occasions after the suspension of their license. Staff interviews indicated that several employees, including a CNA, NA, and the Business Office Manager, were aware of the Transport Driver's suspended license, with some learning about it through direct communication or by checking online records. The Business Office Manager confirmed that the driver continued to transport residents until the issue was brought to their attention by other staff. The facility did not provide a policy or job description specific to the Transport Driver, and there was confusion among staff regarding the licensure requirements for operating the facility's van. The Medical Director stated that it would not be expected for anyone with a suspended license to serve as the transport driver.