complaint·May 4, 2024

LPA Urena observed the dining areas during lunch time; lunch is served between 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The facility has two dining areas located on the second floor and a Bistro located on the first floor. On specific days the facility provides a ‘themed’ Buffet by the Bistro area. The buffet is in addition to the two dining areas on the second floor. The dining areas provide ‘made to order meals’, which can be ordered from the daily menu and can take anywhere from 30 to 40 minutes to be prepared. The Daily Special menu meals are pre-prepared and are available for residents to be served right away. The LPA observed an abundance of meals being served to residents sitting in the dining room areas. The LPA interviewed 14 residents during the lunch period. The LPA asked if the kitchen ever runs out of certain food items? Two (2) out of 14 residents stated that on a couple of occasions, certain food items have run out; however, the residents stated that there are always several alternatives. When the LPA asked for examples, the residents stated that if the kitchen is out of one type of bread, there are other breads offered to them. Furthermore, all 14 residents added that the quantity of food served has never been a problem. They can eat all they want, there are no restrictions, and they can take food to their room; after they ate their meal in the dining room. The residents went on to rate the facility’s salads as ‘wonderful’, and meals as satisfying and plentiful. The residents commented on the Peruvian food buffet provided during the week and added that food was very good. The LPA interviewed the administrator about the quantity of food prepared by the kitchen, and the administrator stated the following, “Sometimes, some popular foods such as steak, and filet mignon, may run out, but it is usually due to residents eating their meals in the dining room and then taking additional food to their room. Residents are never restricted to one meal, and they can eat as much as they want. The kitchen also ensures to have alternate meals available to fulfill the food group, chicken, fish, pork, etc. The LPA interviewed the Culinary Regional Director (CRD) and the Executive Chef (EC) about the quantity of food prepared each day for the three different meals served. Both stated that they use the census to ensure that there are sufficient meals for all residents, plus they use a survey system to learn about the trends of the meals the residents favor. The CRD stated that they hold monthly ‘Culinary’ meetings with the residents’ council to discuss menu choices and to make recommendations to the chef. The CRD provided to the LPA the meeting agenda for the month of April 2024. Based on observation, and information gathered through interviews and documents, the allegation that the Facility does not ensure that there is an adequate quantity of food to provide to residents in care, is deemed Unsubstantiated at this time. Exit interview was conducted and a copy of the report was issued.