complaint·July 24, 2023

For allegation, Resident placed on hospice without proper authorization: Interviews and record reviews conducted by the Department could not corroborate that R1 was put on hospice without proper authorization. LPA reviewed R1’s physician’s order for hospice services dated 2/4/2020 signed by R1’s doctor. LPA also reviewed a document titled Notification of Initiation of Hospice Care Services, dated 2/10/2020 that authorized hospice services for R1 under the care of Brookdale Hospice. The document was acknowledged by R1’s power of attorney (POA). The staff stated that to initiate hospice services for a resident they are required to obtain a physician’s order and a signed statement from the resident’s POA. The facility completed both of these steps to ensure R1’s hospice needs were handled safely and correctly. Based on evidence obtained during the investigation, the allegations listed above are deemed UNSUBSTANTIATED. A finding that the complaints are UNSUBSTANTIATED means although the allegations may have happened or are valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur. During today’s visit, no deficiencies were cited per Title 22, Division 6, of the California Code of Regulations. An exit interview was conducted, and this report (LIC9099) was discussed and provided to Administrator Brittney Martinez, along with a copy of the appeal rights.