Failure to Provide Required Written Discharge Notice and Ombudsman Notification
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide required written notification of discharge, including the reasons for the move and the right to appeal, to a resident and her responsible party. The notification was not given in writing, in a language and manner they could understand, nor was it provided at least 30 days prior to the discharge as required. Additionally, the facility did not send a copy of the discharge notice to the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman. Interviews revealed that the social worker verbally informed the family member about the need for alternate placement and recommended memory care, but did not initiate a formal 30-day notice. The finance manager and DON were unaware of who was responsible for notifying the Ombudsman, and the family member confirmed that no written notice was received. The Ombudsman also stated she did not receive notification of the discharge. The resident involved was an elderly female with severe cognitive impairment, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, depression, hyperlipidemia, and vitamin deficiency. Her care plan did not include discharge goals or plans, and she was ultimately discharged to a memory care facility. Facility staff cited the lack of a physical address for the responsible party as a reason for not providing the written notice, and there was confusion among staff regarding the process for notifying the Ombudsman. The facility's policy on transfer or discharge was requested but not provided prior to the survey exit.