complaint·June 26, 2023

Allegation: Staff do not notify resident's responsible party of incidents. It is alleged that on April 25, 2023 at approximately 2:30 PM, emergency medical personnel responded to a 911 phone call pertaining to resident (R1), but facility staff failed to inform R1's authorized representative of the incident because they felt that the incident was not severe enough. The resident's responsible party learned about an outstanding Emergency Medical Service bill from R1 and not facility staff. According to staff interviews, medical personnel deemed the incident a non-medical emergency and the resident was not transported to a hospital. Resident (R1) informed staff of the bill received, but staff did not notify R1's responsible party until two (2) weeks later. Resident (R1) was interviewed, but due to cognitive impairment the resident was not able to provide details related to the aforementioned incidents. Administrative staff interviews revealed that R1's responsible party was not notified of the April 25, 2023 incident or the bill received. Staff (S2)/Administrator Assistant stated staff deemed the incident a false alarm since emergency personnel stated there was no need for medical treatment and did not report the incident to responsible party and Community Care Licensing. In regards to the bill, staff stated that facility staff tried handling the bill charges without notifying R1's responsible party. Staff contacted the fire department to try to get the bill waived but were not successful. Staff also contacted Medi-Cal regarding the outstanding bill. LPA called four (4) responsible parties; of which two (2) stated that in the past the facility has failed to notify them of incidents. A total of four (4) residents were interviewed. They did not report notification issues. However, pertaining to resident (R1's) incident (4/25/2023) and bill (5/4/2023) the facility failed to follow policy and procedure regarding incident notification. Based on observation, record review, and interviews conducted the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be SUBSTANTIATED . Deficiencies are cited according to California Code of Regulations, Title 22. See LIC 9099D. Exit interview was conducted with Interim Administrator Nelida Arlante and Administrative Assistant Sau Lee. A copy of the report and appeal rights were issued.