Failure to Follow Proper Discharge Procedures and Notification Requirements
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow the required process for discharging a resident, specifically neglecting to reassess the resident and properly identify and document how the facility could not meet the resident's needs. The resident in question had a history of morbid obesity, localized edema, depression, anxiety, reduced mobility, and was bedbound. The resident required significant assistance with activities of daily living and had recently experienced a decline in condition, resulting in hospitalization. Despite these complex needs, the facility did not provide the necessary documentation or notification regarding the resident's needs, appeal rights, or bed-hold policies at the time of discharge. Upon the resident's transfer to the hospital, the facility failed to send appropriate discharge paperwork and did not issue a proper 30-day notice of discharge. The hospital attempted to return the resident to the facility, but the facility refused to readmit the resident, citing inability to meet the resident's care needs due to increased weight and lack of appropriate equipment and staffing. Communication between the hospital and the facility was inadequate, with the facility not responding to multiple attempts by the hospital to coordinate the resident's return. Interviews with facility staff confirmed that the decision not to readmit the resident was based on the facility's inability to care for the resident's increased weight and complexity of care. Staff acknowledged that a 30-day notice and appropriate placement should have been arranged prior to discharge, but these steps were not taken. The facility also did not reassess the resident for possible readmission after the hospital transfer, and no evidence was provided that the resident received required notifications regarding appeal rights or bed-hold policies.