SNF ABNs Missing Resident or POA Coverage Decisions
Summary
The facility failed to ensure residents were offered and that their decisions were documented regarding continuation of skilled therapy services and their inpatient stay when Medicare coverage ended. Based on medical record review, SNF ABN review, policy review, and interview, two residents out of three sampled were affected. Resident #60 was admitted with diagnoses including congestive heart failure, muscle weakness, and difficulty walking. The SNF ABN dated 08/11/25 stated that the resident’s inpatient skilled facility services, including the inpatient stay, would no longer be covered as of 08/14/25, and listed three options for the resident to choose from; however, none of the options were marked. Resident #53 was admitted with diagnoses including muscle weakness, metabolic encephalopathy, congestive heart failure, and myocardial infarction. The SNF ABN dated 05/06/25 stated the last covered day for Medicare Part A skilled services was 05/06/25 and listed three options for the resident to choose from, but none were marked. The form also documented that on 05/01/25 at 10:00 A.M., the Admissions Coordinator verbally notified the resident’s POA by phone of the non-coverage, explained appeal rights, and advised that financial liability would begin on 05/07/25, but no decision was documented. During interview, Social Services #211 and Admissions Coordinator #201 verified that the beneficiary notices for Residents #53 and #60 did not indicate the resident or POA decisions regarding discontinuation of skilled services, and the Admissions Coordinator stated she had reviewed the forms by phone and mailed them certified, but had not documented the choices made.
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