complaint·March 15, 2024

The staff denied knowing the PIN number to the debit card. The staff denied that purchases were made by the staff using the debit card. On 3/4/2024, the staff asked R1 if they wanted to open a trust account to safeguard funds but R1 denied and continued to return the debit card to the front office. During today’s visit, the Administrator informed LPA that they would contact R1’s family to inquire about conservatorship over finances. If the family does not want to be involved with R1’s finances, the Administrator will contact the County of San Bernardino to inquire if a county conservatorship over finances would fit R1’s financial needs. Interview with R1 revealed that upon admission to the facility R1 asked the facility to safeguard their debit card. R1 willingly signed a document allowing the facility to secure R1’s debit card in the front office. R1 did not have concerns about purchases made with their debit card. R1 denied that their debit card was withheld from R1. R1 informed LPA that they changed their mind, would like the debit card returned, and wants to discontinue the facility from securing the debit card. Interviews with additional residents at the facility did not reveal information that other residents had issues with the facility safeguarding or handling their finances. A document review of R1’s record revealed that R1 is self-responsible, does not have a conservator, and does not have a power of attorney. R1’s admission agreement was signed and dated on 2/22/2024. On 2/22/2024, R1 signed a document allowing the facility to safeguard their debit card. A document review of R1’s record revealed notes for outings on 2/22/2024, 3/4/2024, and 3/11/2024 where R1 used their debit card to make purchases. During today’s visit, R1’s debit card was returned to R1 and is no longer in possession of the facility. Overall, there was not enough evidence to collaborate the allegation listed above. Based on evidence obtained during the investigation, the allegation listed above is deemed UNSUBSTANTIATED. A finding that the complaint is UNSUBSTANTIATED means although the allegation may have happened or is 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 Administrator Keely Smith, along with a copy of the appeal rights.