complaint·October 16, 2024

It was alleged that residents are not being provided with transportation. The reporting party (RP) stated that the facility does not have a current regular driver to provide transportation. Interviews with staff and ED explained that the previous full-time driver was terminated in the beginning of August 2024. The activity directors and management have been providing transportation in the meantime. Staff #1 (S1) manages AM transportation while Staff #2 (S2) manages PM transportation, both with the four-passenger facility vehicle. Staff #3 (S3) works part-time and has a Class B driver’s license and is therefore able to drive the sixteen-passenger facility bus on Saturdays and Sundays. ED stated that they are receiving applications for the driver position opening and have a few interviews this week to fill the position. Furthermore, LPA reviewed and obtained transportation sign-up sheets which document names of resident’s transportation appointment, destination of address, and pick-up time. Time slots are in thirty-minute intervals. Staff stated that a 24–48-hour notice is requested of residents when they would like to schedule transportation. LPA observed the welcome brochure and transportation schedule stating that “transportation is limited to a 10-mile radius, rides must be booked 24-hours in advance or earlier, and priority will be allotted to appointments, shopping trips may be rescheduled if needed.” The transportation schedule also states that the facility will help residents obtain public transportation such as Uber/Lyft or Dial-A-Ride at the resident’s expense if transportation needs cannot be met within the policy. LPA also observed scheduled events such as church rides offered every Sunday at 08:15AM, scenic drives, food outings, and sign-up sheets for these group outings. File review of the facility’s plan of operation states that the facility will provide “assistance in arranging transportation for all residents to medical and dental care appointments, shopping and recreational facilities, and religious activities.” Assistance in arranging also includes helping residents book public transportation services not provided by the facility. Interviews with residents explained that there is no issue when it comes to booking the facility car and that management are providing transportation, but the bus has a shortage due to the license class required to drive the vehicle. Residents also stated that there are group social outings offered such as Christmas light viewing and possible road trips in the future. Based on interviews and record review, the Department does not have sufficient evidence to corroborate the allegation. Although the allegation may be valid, at this time there is insufficient evidence to support the allegation or that a violation occurred, therefore, the allegation “Residents are not being provided with transportation” is deemed UNSUBSTANTIATED at this time. No citations issued. Exit interview conducted. A copy of today's report was provided.