complaint·September 7, 2022

In regard to the allegation: Staff member did not allow residents access to Ombudsman services. It was alleged that on 3/09/2021, Ombudsman (OMB) was stopped by A1, who would not allow the OMB to enter the facility to check in with residents. A1 indicated the OMB can only meet with residents if they happen to come out of their rooms. On 5/06/2021 and 5/07/2021, the Executive Director, Marlene Rainen (A1) stated (via email) that she never prevented OMB from seeing the residents in their campus and only asked her to follow their Covid policy and protocols. A1 claimed that OMB did not sign-in when requested to do so and did not present any identification to the staff, not even a business card. A1 stated that the facility did not allow any family or strangers into buildings due to their Covid protocols. LPA's interview with A1 today confirmed that she did not allow anyone, including medical personnel, ombudspersons, local health personnel, etc. to go inside the residents cottages. A1 stated she allowed outside visit only after following covid protocols and that applied to everyone. LPA's interview with S1 revealed that the facility was very strict with visitors around that time due to Covid-19 pandemic. She could not recall if the OMB was not allowed entry to see residents but S1 stated that A1 was only protecting the vulnerable residents. S2 stated that she recalled that OMB was asked to go around the facility but could not go inside the cottages until after seeing A1. Interview with W1 stated that he was not aware that A1 or the facility was not allowing visitors entry. When he visited, he was allowed to visit outdoors only, and had to make a reservation and follow covid screenings. Based on LPAs’ interviews and record reviews conducted, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be SUBSTANTIATED. California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 6, and Chapter 8 are being cited on the attached LIC 9099D. Exit interview conducted with Marlene A. Rainen. Copy of the Reports and Appeal Rights given .