Hearth Record

Americare Certified Special Services, Inc. Chha

A home health agency in Brooklyn, New York 11234

5923 Strickland Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11234. (718) 535-3100.

CMS’s own record, on Care Compare

Watch and the shortlist are kept with a free account, on every device. Your watch list. CMS’s own record is on Care Compare.

The short answer

Record last released by CMS on Oct 21, 2026.

The last 24 months 47 deficiencies in 10 months of the last 36. Last cited Aug 2026. Most serious: Standard-level. Every month

Each figure’s source sits beside it, in its section below.

What these words mean3
Star ratings
CMS rates some kinds of place from 1 to 5 stars, more stars meaning better on CMS’s own measures for that kind: for a nursing home, its health inspections, staffing and quality measures. A rating is CMS’s summary of those measures; it doesn’t promise good care. Source: CMS, Care Compare and the Five-Star Quality Rating System.
Inspection (survey)
A visit by state inspectors, often unannounced, who check a place against the rules it must meet. For nursing homes and other places Medicare pays, CMS calls these visits surveys: a standard survey of a nursing home comes at least every 15 months, and a complaint survey whenever a complaint calls for one. Source: CMS; 42 CFR 488.308.
Deficiency, citation, violation
What inspectors write up when a place didn’t meet a rule: the rule, what they saw, and when. CMS calls it a deficiency; states may say citation or violation. It is the inspectors’ finding, not a court’s, and the place is usually asked for a plan to correct it. Source: CMS, statement of deficiencies (Form CMS-2567); each state’s licensing agency.

What did inspectors find?

The last inspection on record was on Aug 4, 2026: a complaint inspection.

47 deficiencies cited in the last three years.

Source:

CMS, QCOR home health inspection reports. Released Oct 20, 2026. Updated monthly.

When those deficiencies happened

47 deficiencies in 10 months of the last 36. Last cited Aug 2026. Most serious: Standard-level. The last 3 years, to Oct 24, 2026.

47 deficiencies by month over the last 3 years. Each cell is one month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2023 NovDec
2024 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2025 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
2026 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOct

Hover or focus a month to read it.

No visit on record Visited, nothing cited A stronger orange is more serious, on its source’s own levels, read onto four bands: from the least serious it publishes to the most
Source:

Hearth Record drew this from the dates and levels in the source’s own records.

Each deficiency, as cited

Rule titles as CMS’s inspectors cite them, set in sentence case.

Source:

CMS, QCOR home health inspection reports. Released Oct 20, 2026. Updated monthly.

Aug 4, 2026: complaint inspection2 deficiencies
  • Health, Psychosocial, Functional, Cognition

    The inspectors’ words, 318 words

    “Health, psychosocial, functional, cognition CFR(s): 484.55(c)(1) Standard: Content of the comprehensive assessment. The comprehensive assessment must accurately reflect the patient’s status, and must include, at a minimum, the following information: (1) The patient’s current health, psychosocial, functional, and cognitive status; This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record reviews and staff interviews, the agency failed to ensure the comprehensive assessment accurately reflects the patient’s current health status. This was evident for one (1) of six (6) clinical records reviewed (Patients #4). Failure to ensure the comprehensive assessment accurately reflects the patient’s current health status at the time of discharge from skilled services has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: Patient #4 has a Start of Care date of 02/05/2026 with diagnoses of Spinal Stenosis, Lumbar Region, Polyosteoarthritis, Unspecified, Other Abnormalities of Gait and Mobility, Cervicalgia, and History of Falling documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period(s) 04/06/2026 to 06/04/2026 and 06/05/2026 to 08/03/2026. The Physical Therapy Treatment Note dated 07/08/2026 documents the following: Plan/ Goals for next visit- Improve Bilateral Lower Extremity Strength; Homebound Status- Unable to leave home safe and independently. The Therapy Discharge Summary Report dated 07/08/2026 documents the following: Care Summary- Patient had a complaint of urinary incontinence. After 5 (five) treatments sessions of pelvic floor physical therapy, patient has resolved urinary incontinence; Standing balance- Improved; Reason for Discharge- Met all Goals; Physician Notification Date: 07/08/2026. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the comprehensive assessment that accurately reflected the patient’s current status at the time of discharge from Physical Therapy services. On 08/04/2026 at 2:25 PM, the Director of Patient Services and Director of Quality Management/ Compliance Operations were interviewed. The Director of Patient Services stated that the Physical Therapy documentation during the last visit on 07/08/2026 was incorrect, the patient is no longer homebound, and goals were already met.”

    Rule G0528. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Discharge Plans Communication

    The inspectors’ words, 475 words

    “Discharge plans communication CFR(s): 484.60(c)(3)(ii) (ii) Any revisions related to plans for the patient’s discharge must be communicated to the patient, representative, caregiver, all physicians or allowed practitioner’s issuing orders for the HHA plan of care, and the patient’s primary care practitioner or other health care professional who will be responsible for providing care and services to the patient after discharge from the HHA (if any). This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record reviews, staff interviews and agency’s policy and procedure, the agency failed to ensure revisions related to the patient’s discharge are communicated to the patient or patient’s representative. This was evident for one (1) of six (6) clinical records reviewed (Patient #4). Failure to ensure revisions related to the patient’s discharge plan from skilled services are communicated to the patient or their representative has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: The Policy Criteria of Discharge-Transfer Discharge Summary with reviewed date of 09/07/2025 documents Procedure No. 1- Any discontinuation of care, treatment and/or services should be done in an appropriate manner and in such a way to prevent harm to the patient. Prior to discharge, patient/family is provided by agency, information related to the reasons for discharge. Patient #4 has a Start of Care date of 02/05/2026 with diagnoses of Spinal Stenosis, Lumbar Region, Polyosteoarthritis, Unspecified, Other Abnormalities of Gait and Mobility, Cervicalgia, and History of Falling documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period(s) 04/06/2026 to 06/04/2026 and 06/05/2026 to 08/03/2026. The Therapy Discharge Summary Report dated 07/08/2026 documents the following: Care Summary- Patient had a complaint of urinary incontinence. After 5 (five) treatments sessions of pelvic floor physical therapy, patient has resolved urinary incontinence; Standing balance- Improved; Reason for Discharge: Met all Goals; Physician Notification Date: 07/08/2026. The Client Coordination Note Report documents the service call was conducted on 07/13/2026, five (5) days after the patient had been discharged from Physical Therapy services. The service call documents the following: Spoke to patient and informed about the patient’s discharge from Physical Therapy services from last week. The patient demanding more therapy. However, the Primary Care Physician requested the patient to go outpatient. Patient is not homebound per Primary Care Physician and Physical Therapy. Patient to continue HHA (Home Health Aide) and Nursing. The patient was not happy about no more Physical Therapy in the home, however all goals were met according to the Physical Therapist, as confirmed over the phone. The clinical record lacks documented evidence that changes related to the patient’s therapy discharge plan was being communicated to the patient and physician prior to the patient’s discharge from therapy services. On 08/04/2026 at 2:25 PM, the Director of Patient Services and Director of Quality Management/ Compliance Operations were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0598. Element-level. From a complaint.

Feb 26, 2026: complaint inspection2 deficiencies
  • Plan Of Care

    The inspectors’ words, 950 words

    “Plan of care CFR(s): 484.60(a)(1) Each patient must receive the home health services that are written in an individualized plan of care that identifies patient-specific measurable outcomes and goals, and which is established, periodically reviewed, and signed by a doctor of medicine, osteopathy, or podiatry acting within the scope of his or her state license, certification, or registration. If a physician or allowed practitioner refers a patient under a plan of care that cannot be completed until after an evaluation visit, the physician or allowed practitioner is consulted to approve additions or modifications to the original plan. This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical records review and staff interviews, the agency failed to ensure that all patients receive services as documented in their individualized plan of care. This was evident for two (2) of six (6) clinical records reviewed. (Patient #2, and #4). Failure to ensure that all patients receive services as documented in their individualized plan of care has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: 1.Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 01/03/2026 and discharge date of 02/12/2026 with the following diagnoses Urinary Tract Infection, Multiple Sclerosis, Hyperlipidemia documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 01/03/2026 to 03/03/2026. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 01/03/2026 to 03/03/2026 documents: HHA (Home Health Aide) effective 01/04/2026 4WK1 (four times a week for one week); 5WK3 (five times a week for three weeks); 2WK1 (two times a week for one week). The Physician Order (Supplemental Order) dated 01/20/2026 documents: HHA (Home Health Aide) effective 02/02/2026 5WK1 (five times a week for one week); 3WK1 (three times a week for one week). The Clinical Record documented HHA (Home Health Aide) services being provided week of 01/04/2026 - 1 time per week, week of 01/11/2026 - no visits, week of 01/18/2026 - 4 visits, week of 01/25/2026 - 1 visit, week of 02/01/2026 2 visits, week of 02/08/2026 - 3 visits. There is no documented evidence of the HHA (Home Health Aide) services being provided in accordance with the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 01/03/2026 to 03/03/2026. On 02/26/2026 at 03:30 PM, the Director of Patient Services was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the finding. 2.Patient #4 has a Start of Care date of 12/13/2025 and discharge date of 02/09/2026 with the following diagnoses Urinary Tract Infection, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Orthostatic Hypotension documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 12/13/2025 to 02/10/2026. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 12/13/2025 to 02/10/2026 documents: HHA effective 12/14/2025 3WK1(three times a week for one week), 5WK4 (five times a week for four weeks). The Physician Order dated 12/30/2025 documents: HHA (Home Health Aide) effective 01/18/2026 5WK3 (five times a week three weeks), 2WK1 (two times a week for one week). The Physician Order dated 02/06/2026 documents: HHA (Home Health Aide) effective 02/01/2026 2WK1 (two times a week for one week), 1WK1 (once a week for one week). The Clinical Record lacks documented evidence of the patient receiving Home Health Aide services. On 02/26/2026 at 03:30 PM, the Director of Patient Services was interviewed and stated that the multiple attempts were made to staff this case, and patient’s wife advised no HHA/vendor was available in that area. The wife was offered accept shower aide services, but she refused. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 12/13/2025 to 02/10/2026 documents: OT (Occupational Therapy) effective 12/14/2025 1WK1 (once a week for one week). The Physician Order (Supplemental Order) dated 01/06/2026 documents: OT (Occupational Therapy) effective 01/04/2026 1WK1 (once a week for one week). The Physician Order (Supplemental Order) dated 01/08/2026 documents: OT (Occupational Therapy) effective 02/01/2026 2WK1 (two times a week for one week), 1WK1 (once a week for one week). The Physician Order (Supplemental Order) dated 01/10/2026 documents: OT (Occupational Therapy) effective 01/04/2026 1WK1 (once a week for one week), 2WK4 (two times a week for four weeks), 1WK1 (once a week for one week). The Physician Order (Supplemental Order) dated 02/06/2026 documents: OT (Occupational Therapy) effective 02/01/2026 2WK1 (two times a week for one week), 1WK1 (once a week for one week). The Clinical Record documented OT (Occupational Therapy) services being provided week of 01/04/2026 - 1 visit/evaluation, week of 01/11/2026 - 2 missed visits, week of 01/18/2026 - 2 visits, week of 01/25/2026 - 2 visits, week of 02/01/2026 - 2 visits, week of 02/08/2026 - 1 visit. The Clinical Coordination Note dated 12/23/2025 documents: Current status: Not able to staff for OT (Occupational Therapy), will ask if more PT (Physical Therapy) is needed so we can supplement OT (Occupational Therapy) with more PT (Physical Therapy). The Clinical Coordination Note dated 01/18/2026 documents: Missed Visit Notification. Date 01/16/2026. Discipline: OT (Occupational Therapy) Visit Status Note: Scheduled OT (Occupational Therapy) visit was not completed on this date due to provider unavailability secondary to a family emergency. Visit to be rescheduled as appropriate. The Clinical Coordination Note dated 01/18/2026 documents: Missed Visit Notification. Date 01/17/2026. Discipline: OT (Occupational Therapy) Visit Status Note: Scheduled OT (Occupational Therapy) visit was not completed on this date due to provider unavailability secondary to a family emergency. Visit to be rescheduled as appropriate. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the patient receiving an OT (Occupational Therapy) visit for the week of 02/11/2026 as documented in the plan of care, and a delay in initiating OT (Occupational Therapy) services. On 02/26/2026 at 03:30 PM, the Director of Patient Services was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the finding.”

    Rule G0572. Standard-level. From a complaint.

  • Coordinate Care Delivery

    The inspectors’ words, 383 words

    “Coordinate care delivery CFR(s): 484.60(d)(4) Coordinate care delivery to meet the patient’s needs, and involve the patient, representative (if any), and caregiver(s), as appropriate, in the coordination of care activities. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical records review, and staff interviews, the agency failed to coordinate care delivery to meet the patient’s needs and involve the patient. This was evident for one (1) of six (6) clinical records reviewed. (Patient #2) Failure to coordinate care delivery to meet the patient’s needs and involve the patient has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: 1.Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 01/03/2026 and discharge date of 02/12/2026 with the following diagnoses Urinary Tract Infection, Multiple Sclerosis, Hyperlipidemia documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 01/03/2026 to 03/03/2026. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 01/03/2026 to 03/03/2026 documents: HHA (Home Health Aide) effective 01/04/2026 4WK1 (four times a week for one week); 5WK3(five times a week for three weeks); 2WK1(two times a week for one week). The Physician Order (Supplemental Order) dated 01/20/2026 documents: HHA (Home Health Aide) effective 02/02/2026 5WK1 (five times a week for one week); 3WK1(three times a week for one week). The Clinical Record documented HHA (Home Health Aide) services being provided week of 01/04/2026 - 1 time per week, week of 01/11/2026 - no visits, week of 01/18/2026 - 4 visits, week of 01/25/2026 - 1 visit, week of 02/01/2026 2 visits, week of 02/08/2026 - 3 visits. The home health aide vendor communication notes document the following: The Member Note dated 01/21/2026 documents: Reason: Missed Visit. Visit Date: 01/22/2026, Scheduled Time: 1500-1800, Note: Patient/Family requested no services for the day/shift. The Member Note dated 01/28/2026 documents: Reason: Missed Visit. Visit Date: 01/28/2026, Scheduled Time: 1400-1800, Note: Patient/Family requested no services for the day/shift. The Member Note dated 02/02/2026 documents: Reason: Missed Visit. Visit Date: 02/02/2026, Scheduled Time: 1400-1800, Note: Patient/Family requested no services for the day/shift. There is no documented evidence of the agency/vendor inquiring about why the patient is refusing HHA services on 01/21/2026, 01/28/2026 and 02/02/2026. On 02/26/2026 at 03:30 PM, the Director of Patient Services was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the finding.”

    Rule G0608. Element-level. From a complaint.

Oct 17, 2025: complaint inspection2 deficiencies
  • Home Health Aide Assignments And Duties

    The inspectors’ words, 1,109 words

    “Home health aide assignments and duties CFR(s): 484.80(g)(1) Standard: Home health aide assignments and duties. Home health aides are assigned to a specific patient by a registered nurse or other appropriate skilled professional, with written patient care instructions for a home health aide prepared by that registered nurse or other appropriate skilled professional (that is, physical therapist, speech-language pathologist, or occupational therapist). This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record reviews, and staff interviews, the agency failed to ensure all paraprofessionals receive a complete Home Health Aide plan of care when providing patient care. This was evident for four (4) of ten (10) clinical records reviewed (Patients: #5, #6, #7, and #8). Failure to ensure all paraprofessionals receive a complete Home Health Aide plan of care has potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: Patient #5 has a Start of Care date of 8/28/2025 with the diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Other Disorders of Psychological Developmental, Developmental Disorder of Speech and Language Unspecified, Restlessness and Agitation, Epilepsy, Unsteadiness on Feet documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 8/28/2025 to 10/26/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 8/28/2025 to 10/26/2025 documents the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “for assistance with the child’s personal care and ADLS (Activities of Daily Living) secondary to functional limitations,” “Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 4 hours (daily), Friday 9 hours, Saturday 12 hours, Sunday 8 hours;” “increase (home health aide) up to 12 hours (daily) for school closure due to federal holidays, school administrative needs, medical appointments, sick day(s).” The “Pediatric Home Health Aide Plan of Care” lacks documented evidence of a Skilled Professional name, title, and signature, date completed and the patient’s functional limitations, including behavioral challenges. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of an accurate, complete and clear written patient care instructions for a home health aide to follow. On 10/17/2025 at 12:40 PM the Administrator and the Director of Patient Service were interviewed and did not provide an explanation or additional documents for the finding. Patient #7 has a Start of Care date of 9/4/2022 with the diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Muscle Weakness (Generalized), Abnormalities of Gait and Mobility documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 8/19/2025 to 10/17/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification 8/19/2025 to 10/17/2025 documents the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “for assistance with the child’s personal care and ADLS (Activities of Daily Living) secondary to functional limitations; “Monday - Wednesday 5 hours (daily), Thursday - Friday 7 hours (daily), Saturday - Sunday 12 hours (daily), increase (home health aide) up to 12 hours (daily) for school closure due to federal holidays, school administrative needs, medical appointments, sick day(s);” “patient to be under CG (caregiver/parent) care from August 17, 2025 to August 25, 2025.” The Registered Nurse Pediatric Recertification assessment dated 8/14/2025 documents the following: Patient “is minimal verbal, uses simple phases and gestures to communicate. (Patient) has fine motor delay, mild abnormal walking/gait. Requires prompting and support with ADLS (Activities of Daily Living); “primary focus on (patient’s) safety and assist with ADLS (Activities of Daily Living).” The “HHA (Home Health Aide) Plan of Care” signed and dated 08/14/2025 by the Registered nurse lacks documented evidence that the patient’s behavioral challenges include communication. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of an accurate, complete and clear written patient care instructions for a home health aide to follow. On 10/17/2025 at 12:40 PM the Administrator and the Director of Patient Service were interviewed and did not provide an explanation or additional documents for the finding. Patient #8 has a Start of Care date of 8/22/2025 with the diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Unspecified Intellectual Disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Unspecified Type, Developmental Disorder of Speech and Language Unspecified, Other Forms of Scoliosis documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 8/22/2025 to 10/20/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 8/22/2025 to 10/20/2025 documents following orders for Home Health Aide services: “for assistance with the child’s personal care and ADLS (Activities of Daily Living) secondary to functional limitations,” “Monday - Friday 11 hours (daily), Saturday - Sunday 12 hours (daily), increase (home health aide) up to 12 hours (daily) for school closure due to federal holidays, school administrative needs, medical appointments, sick day(s).” The Registered Nurse Pediatric Admission assessment dated 8/22/2025 documents the following: patient is “mostly nonverbal, very few words. Ambulates independently with unsteady gait and balance due to Scoliosis;” at “risk for elopement; requires constant supervision.” The Speech Therapy evaluation note dated 9/12/2025 documents: parent “reports that pt (patient) can speak in sentences, but only when (patient) wants to/requesting (e.g. ‘I want a snack’). Pt (Patient) will repeatedly request until (patient) needs or met or (patient) will be aggressive (i.e. scratch or hit) people. Pt (Patient) will walk around the house in circles and mumble/make nonspeech sound to (self).” The “Pediatric Home Health Aide Plan of Care” signed and dated 8/22/2025 by the Registered nurse lacks documented evidence of the patient’s behavioral challenges/indication include hyperactive and aggression. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of an accurate, complete and clear written patient care instructions for a home health aide to follow. On 10/17/2025 at 12:40 PM the Administrator and the Director of Patient Service were interviewed and did not provide an explanation or additional documents for the finding. 1. Patient #6 has a Start of Care date of 08/21/2025 with the following diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Unspecified Intellectual Disabilities, Down Syndrome, Unspecified Speech Disturbances, Thyrotoxicosis documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 8/21/2025 to 10/19/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 8/21/2025 to 10/19/2025 documents the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “ HHA(Home Health Aide) effective 08/24/2025 6wk8 (six times a week for eight weeks); Monday –Saturday 7 hours, increase HHA (Home Health Aide) to 12 hours for school closer due to federal holidays, school administrative needs, medical appointments, sick day(s). Home Health Aide for assistance with the child’s personal care ADL (Activity of Daily Living)’s secondary to functional limitations.” The Pediatric Home Health Aide Plan of Care dated 08/21/2025 lacks documented evidence of patient’s functional limitations, including behavioral challenges. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of an accurate, complete and clear written patient care instructions for a home health aide to follow. On 10/17/2025 at 12:40 PM the Administrator and the Director of Patient Service were interviewed and did not provide an explanation or additional documents for the finding.”

    Rule G0798. Standard-level. From a complaint.

  • Onsite Supervisory Visit Every 14 Days

    The inspectors’ words, 3,946 words

    “Onsite supervisory visit every 14 days CFR(s): 484.80(h)(1)(i) (1)(i) If home health aide services are provided to a patient who is receiving skilled nursing, physical or occupational therapy, or speech language pathology services— (A) A registered nurse or other appropriate skilled professional who is familiar with the patient, the patient’s plan of care, and the written patient care instructions described in paragraph (g) of this section, must complete a supervisory assessment of the aide services being provided no less frequently than every 14 days; and (B) The home health aide does not need to be present during the supervisory assessment described in paragraph (h)(1)(i)(A) of this section. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review, and staff interviews, the agency failed to ensure that home health aide receiving onsite supervision every 14 days. This was evident for six (6) of ten (10) clinical records reviewed (Patient: #1,#2, #6, #7, #8, and #10). Failure to ensure that home health aide receiving onsite supervision every 14 days, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: The “HHA (Home Health Aide) Supervision Frequency for Patients Receiving Skilled and non-Skilled services” Policy (Effective 1/4/2008) documents the following procedure: “If a patient is receiving skilled services from any professional discipline, the Home Health Aide (HHA) must be supervised on-site by the same discipline providing skilled care, at a minimum of once every two weeks. This supervision must be clearly documented in the patient’s medical record;” and “Clinical Managers will monitor compliance.” Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 1/31/2024 with the diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Developmental Disorder of Scholastic Skills Unspecified, Unspecified Speech Disturbances, Unspecified Intellectual Disabilities documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 9/22/2025 to 11/20/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 7/24/2025 to 9/21/2025 documents orders for skilled services to include Skilled Nurse, Physical Therapist, Occupation Therapist, and Speech Therapist, and the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “for assistance with the child’s personal care and ADLS (Activities of Daily Living) secondary to functional limitations, Monday - Sunday 12 hours (daily).” The Home Health Certification and Plan(s) of Care for Certification Period 9/22/2025 to 11/20/2025 documents orders for skilled services to include Skilled Nurse, Physical Therapist, Occupation Therapist, and Speech Therapist, and the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “for assistance with the child’s personal care and ADLS (Activities of Daily Living) secondary to functional limitations, Monday - Friday 8 hours (daily), Saturday - Sunday 12 hours (daily).” The Registered Nurse Pediatric Recertification assessment(s) dated 7/22/2025 and 9/17/2025 document the following: “The patient (child) has poor safety awareness and unaware of danger. Patient’s (parent) reports patient has hx (history) of eloping;” “patient has tantrums and hits others when attempts made to go outside” “patient has difficulty staying asleep throughout the night and disturbs others while awake.” The clinical record documents that home health aide service was being provided from 07/24/2025 to 10/04/2025, during the two certification periods. The clinical record documents home health aide supervision was conducted on 7/22/2025 and then on 09/17/2025, fifty-seven (57) days later. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of three supervisory assessment of aide services after 7/22/2025 and of one supervisory assessment of after 09/17/2025, four missed supervisions. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide(s) being supervised every 14 days to ensure services are safely being provided and in accordance with the aide plan of care. There is no documented evidence of the Clinical Manager monitoring the compliance of aide supervision, in accordance with the agency’s policy. On 10/14/2025 at 3:30 PM the Administrator, the Director of Patient Service, and the Director of Compliance and Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation or additional documents for the finding. Patient #7 has a Start of Care date of 9/4/2022 with the diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Muscle Weakness (Generalized), Abnormalities of Gait and Mobility documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 8/19/2025 to 10/17/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification 8/19/2025 to 10/17/2025 documents orders for skilled services to include Skilled Nurse and Physical Therapist, and the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “for assistance with the child’s personal care and ADLS (Activities of Daily Living) secondary to functional limitations; “Monday - Wednesday 5 hours (daily), Thursday - Friday 7 hours (daily), Saturday - Sunday 12 hours (daily), increase (home health aide) up to 12 hours (daily) for school closure due to federal holidays, school administrative needs, medical appointments, sick day(s);” “patient to be under CG (caregiver/parent) care from August 17, 2025 to August 25, 2025.” The Registered Nurse Pediatric Recertification assessment dated 8/14/2025 documents the following: Patient “is minimal verbal, uses simple phases and gestures to communicate. (Patient) has fine motor delay, mild abnormal walking/gait. Requires prompting and support with ADLS (Activities of Daily Living); “primary focus on (patient’s) safety and assist with ADLS (Activities of Daily Living).” The clinical record documents the home health aide was supervised during the skilled nurse visit on 08/14/2025. The clinical record documents that home health aide service was being provided from 8/26/2025 to 9/11/2025. The clinical record documents the next aide supervision was on 9/12/2025 during the Physical Therapist visit, 29 days after the supervision on 8/14/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide(s) being supervised every 14 days to ensure services are safely being provided and in accordance with the aide plan of care. There is no documented evidence of the Clinical Manager monitoring the compliance of aide supervision, in accordance with the agency’s policy. On 10/16/2025 at 10:50 AM the Administrator and the Director of Patient Service were interviewed, and the Director of Patient Services stated “I have nothing else” to provide for the finding. Patient #8 has a Start of Care date of 8/22/2025 with the diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Unspecified Intellectual Disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Unspecified Type, Developmental Disorder of Speech and Language Unspecified, Other Forms of Scoliosis documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 8/22/2025 to 10/20/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 8/22/2025 to 10/20/2025 documents orders for skilled services to include Skilled Nurse, Physical Therapist, Speech Therapist, and Occupational Therapist and the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “for assistance with the child’s personal care and ADLS (Activities of Daily Living) secondary to functional limitations,” “Monday - Friday 11 hours (daily), Saturday - Sunday 12 hours (daily), increase (home health aide) up to 12 hours (daily) for school closure due to federal holidays, school administrative needs, medical appointments, sick day(s).” The Physician Order Dated 09/18/2025 documents the following changes to home health aide visit frequency: Effective 9/15/2025, Monday – Wednesday 3 hours (daily), Thursday 7 hours, Saturday and Sunday 12 hours (daily), Friday discontinued.” The Registered Nurse Pediatric Admission assessment dated 8/22/2025 documents the following: patient is “mostly nonverbal, very few words. Ambulates independently with unsteady gait and balance due to Scoliosis;” at “risk for elopement; requires constant supervision.” The Speech Therapy evaluation note dated 9/12/2025 documents: parent “reports that pt (patient) can speak in sentences, but only when (patient) wants to/requesting (e.g. ‘I want a snack’). Pt (Patient) will repeatedly request until (patient) needs or met or (patient) will be aggressive (i.e. scratch or hit) people. Pt (Patient) will walk around the house in circles and mumble/make nonspeech sound to (self).” The clinical record documents that home health aide service was being provided from 8/27/2025 to 10/13/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence to the aide being supervised since the start of aide service on 8/27/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide(s) being supervised every 14 days to ensure services are safely being provided and in accordance with the aide plan of care. There is no documented evidence of the Clinical Manager monitoring the compliance of aide supervision, in accordance with the agency’s policy. On 10/16/2025 at 10:50 AM the Administrator and the Director of Patient Service were interviewed, and the Director of Patient Services stated “I have nothing else” to provide for the finding. Patient #10 has a Start of Care date of 8/28/2023 with the diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Unspecified Lack of Expected Normal Physiological Development in Childhood, Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Origin in the Prenatal Period documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 8/17/2025 to 10/15/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 8/17/2025 to 10/15/2025 documents orders for skilled services to include Skilled Nurse, Physical Therapist, and Speech Therapist, and the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “for assistance with the child’s personal care and ADLS (Activities of Daily Living) secondary to functional limitations,” “Monday - Friday 5 Hours (daily), Saturday - Sunday 10 Hours (daily), increase (home health aide) up to 12 hours (daily) for school closure due to federal holidays, school administrative needs, medical appointments, sick day(s).” The Registered Nurse Pediatric Recertification assessment dated 8/13/2025 documents the following: “Patient is nonverbal. Caregiver reports ongoing difficulty with daily living activities, including hygiene, dressing and behavior management;” “primary focus on patient’s safety.” The clinical record documents the skilled nurse conducted a supervision of aide services on 8/13/2025 and the Speech Therapist conducted a subsequent supervision on 9/2/2025, twenty (20) days later. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide(s) being supervised every 14 days to ensure services are safely being provided and in accordance with the aide plan of care. There is no documented evidence of the Clinical Manager monitoring the compliance of aide supervision, in accordance with the agency’s policy. On 10/16/2025 at 10:50 AM the Administrator and the Director of Patient Service were interviewed, and the Director of Patient Services stated “I have nothing else” to provide for the finding. Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 10/09/2025 with the following diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Unspecified Intellectual Disabilities, Other Abnormalities of Gait and Mobility, Congenital Hypotonia documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 8/19/2025 to 10/17/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 8/19/2025 to 10/17/2025 documents the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “Monday – Friday 6 hours, Saturday -Sunday 8 hours, increase HHA (Home Health Aide) to 12 hours for school closer due to federal holidays, school administrative needs, medical appointments, sick day(s). Home Health Aide for assistance with the child’s personal care ADL(Activity of Daily Living)’s secondary to functional limitations.” The clinical record documents that home health aide service was being provided from 08/31/2025 to 09/18/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence to the aide being supervised from 08/31/2025 to 09/18/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide(s) being supervised every 14 days to ensure services are safely being provided and in accordance with the aide plan of care. On 10/16/2025 at 10:50 AM the Administrator and the Director of Patient Service were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. Patient #6 has a Start of Care date of 08/21/2025 with the following diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Unspecified Intellectual Disabilities, Down Syndrome, Unspecified Speech Disturbances, Thyrotoxicosis documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 8/21/2025 to 10/19/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 8/19/2025 to 10/17/2025 documents the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “ HHA(Home Health Aide) effective 08/24/2025 6wk8 (six times a week for eight weeks); Monday –Saturday 7 hours, increase HHA (Home Health Aide) to 12 hours for school closer due to federal holidays, school administrative needs, medical appointments, sick day(s). Home Health Aide for assistance with the child’s personal care ADL (Activity of Daily Living)’s secondary to functional limitations.” The clinical record documents that home health aide service was being provided from 8/25/2025 to 10/08/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence to the aide being supervised since the start of aide service on 8/25/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide(s) being supervised every 14 days to ensure services are safely being provided and in accordance with the aide plan of care. On 10/16/2025 at 10:50 AM the Administrator and the Director of Patient Service were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. The “HHA (Home Health Aide) Supervision Frequency for Patients Receiving Skilled and non-Skilled services” Policy (Effective 1/4/2008) documents the following procedure: “If a patient is receiving skilled services from any professional discipline, the Home Health Aide (HHA) must be supervised on-site by the same discipline providing skilled care, at a minimum of once every two weeks. This supervision must be clearly documented in the patient’s medical record;” and “Clinical Managers will monitor compliance.” 1. Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 10/09/2025 with the following diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Unspecified Intellectual Disabilities, Other Abnormalities of Gait and Mobility, Congenital Hypotonia documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 8/19/2025 to 10/17/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 8/19/2025 to 10/17/2025 documents the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “Monday – Friday 6 hours, Saturday -Sunday 8 hours, increase HHA (Home Health Aide) to 12 hours for school closer due to federal holidays, school administrative needs, medical appointments, sick day(s). Home Health Aide for assistance with the child’s personal care ADL(Activity of Daily Living)’s secondary to functional limitations.” The clinical record documents home health aide service being provided from 08/31/2025 to 09/18/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide being supervised from 08/31/2025 to 09/18/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide(s) being supervised every 14 days to ensure services are safely being provided and in accordance with the aide plan of care. On 10/16/2025 at 10:50 AM the Administrator and the Director of Patient Service were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #6 has a Start of Care date of 08/21/2025 with the following diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Unspecified Intellectual Disabilities, Down Syndrome, Unspecified Speech Disturbances, Thyrotoxicosis documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 8/21/2025 to 10/19/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 8/21/2025 to 10/19/2025 documents the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “ HHA(Home Health Aide) effective 08/24/2025 6wk8 (six times a week for eight weeks); Monday –Saturday 7 hours, increase HHA (Home Health Aide) to 12 hours for school closer due to federal holidays, school administrative needs, medical appointments, sick day(s). Home Health Aide for assistance with the child’s personal care ADL (Activity of Daily Living)’s secondary to functional limitations.” The clinical record documents the home health aide providing service from 8/25/2025 to 10/08/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide being supervised since the start of aide service on 8/25/2025 to 10/08/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide(s) being supervised every 14 days to ensure services are safely being provided and in accordance with the aide plan of care. On 10/16/2025 at 10:50 AM the Administrator and the Director of Patient Service were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 3. Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 1/31/2024 with the diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Developmental Disorder of Scholastic Skills Unspecified, Unspecified Speech Disturbances, Unspecified Intellectual Disabilities documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 9/22/2025 to 11/20/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 7/24/2025 to 9/21/2025 documents orders for skilled services to include Skilled Nurse, Physical Therapist, Occupation Therapist, and Speech Therapist, and the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “for assistance with the child’s personal care and ADLS (Activities of Daily Living) secondary to functional limitations, Monday - Sunday 12 hours (daily).” The Home Health Certification and Plan(s) of Care for Certification Period 9/22/2025 to 11/20/2025 documents orders for skilled services to include Skilled Nurse, Physical Therapist, Occupation Therapist, and Speech Therapist, and the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “for assistance with the child’s personal care and ADLS (Activities of Daily Living) secondary to functional limitations, Monday - Friday 8 hours (daily), Saturday - Sunday 12 hours (daily).” The Registered Nurse Pediatric Recertification assessment(s) dated 7/22/2025 and 9/17/2025 documents the following: “The patient (child) has poor safety awareness and unaware of danger. Patient’s (parent) reports patient has hx (history) of eloping;” “patient has tantrums and hits others when attempts made to go outside” “patient has difficulty staying asleep throughout the night and disturbs others while awake.” The clinical record documents home health aide service being provided from 07/24/2025 to 10/04/2025, during the two certification periods. The clinical record documents home health aide supervision was conducted on 7/22/2025 and then on 09/17/2025, fifty-seven (57) days later. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of three supervisory assessment of aide services after 7/22/2025 and of one supervisory assessment of after 09/17/2025, four missed supervisions. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide(s) being supervised every 14 days to ensure services are safely being provided and in accordance with the aide plan of care. There is no documented evidence of the Clinical Manager monitoring the compliance of aide supervision, in accordance with the agency’s policy. On 10/14/2025 at 3:30 PM the Administrator, the Director of Patient Service, and the Director of Compliance and Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation or additional documents for the finding. 4. Patient #7 has a Start of Care date of 9/4/2022 with the diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Muscle Weakness (Generalized), Abnormalities of Gait and Mobility documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 8/19/2025 to 10/17/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification 8/19/2025 to 10/17/2025 documents orders for skilled services to include Skilled Nurse and Physical Therapist, and the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “for assistance with the child’s personal care and ADLS (Activities of Daily Living) secondary to functional limitations; “Monday - Wednesday 5 hours (daily), Thursday - Friday 7 hours (daily), Saturday - Sunday 12 hours (daily), increase (home health aide) up to 12 hours (daily) for school closure due to federal holidays, school administrative needs, medical appointments, sick day(s);” “patient to be under CG (caregiver/parent) care from August 17, 2025 to August 25, 2025.” The Registered Nurse Pediatric Recertification assessment dated 8/14/2025 documents the following: Patient “is minimal verbal, uses simple phases and gestures to communicate. (Patient) has fine motor delay, mild abnormal walking/gait. Requires prompting and support with ADLS (Activities of Daily Living); “primary focus on (patient’s) safety and assist with ADLS (Activities of Daily Living).” The clinical record documents the home health aide was supervised during the skilled nurse visit on 08/14/2025. The clinical record documents that home health aide service was being provided from 8/26/2025 to 9/11/2025. The clinical record documents the next aide supervision was on 9/12/2025 during the Physical Therapist visit, 29 days after the supervision on 8/14/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide(s) being supervised every 14 days to ensure services are safely being provided and in accordance with the aide plan of care. There is no documented evidence of the Clinical Manager monitoring the compliance of aide supervision, in accordance with the agency’s policy. On 10/16/2025 at 10:50 AM the Administrator and the Director of Patient Service were interviewed, and the Director of Patient Services stated “I have nothing else” to provide for the finding. 5. Patient #8 has a Start of Care date of 8/22/2025 with the diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Unspecified Intellectual Disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Unspecified Type, Developmental Disorder of Speech and Language Unspecified, Other Forms of Scoliosis documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 8/22/2025 to 10/20/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 8/22/2025 to 10/20/2025 documents orders for skilled services to include Skilled Nurse, Physical Therapist, Speech Therapist, and Occupational Therapist and the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “for assistance with the child’s personal care and ADLS (Activities of Daily Living) secondary to functional limitations,” “Monday - Friday 11 hours (daily), Saturday - Sunday 12 hours (daily), increase (home health aide) up to 12 hours (daily) for school closure due to federal holidays, school administrative needs, medical appointments, sick day(s).” The Physician Order Dated 09/18/2025 documents the following changes to home health aide visit frequency: Effective 9/15/2025, Monday – Wednesday 3 hours (daily), Thursday 7 hours, Saturday and Sunday 12 hours (daily), Friday discontinued.” The Registered Nurse Pediatric Admission assessment dated 8/22/2025 documents the following: patient is “mostly nonverbal, very few words. Ambulates independently with unsteady gait and balance due to Scoliosis;” at “risk for elopement; requires constant supervision.” The Speech Therapy evaluation note dated 9/12/2025 documents: parent “reports that pt (patient) can speak in sentences, but only when (patient) wants to/requesting (e.g. ‘I want a snack’). Pt (Patient) will repeatedly request until (patient) needs or met or (patient) will be aggressive (i.e. scratch or hit) people. Pt (Patient) will walk around the house in circles and mumble/make nonspeech sound to (self).” The clinical record documents that home health aide service was being provided from 8/27/2025 to 10/13/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence to the aide being supervised since the start of aide service on 8/27/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide(s) being supervised every 14 days to ensure services are safely being provided and in accordance with the aide plan of care. There is no documented evidence of the Clinical Manager monitoring the compliance of aide supervision, in accordance with the agency’s policy. On 10/16/2025 at 10:50 AM the Administrator and the Director of Patient Service were interviewed, and the Director of Patient Services stated “I have nothing else” to provide for the finding. 6. Patient #10 has a Start of Care date of 8/28/2023 with the diagnoses Autistic Disorder, Unspecified Lack of Expected Normal Physiological Development in Childhood, Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Origin in the Prenatal Period documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 8/17/2025 to 10/15/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 8/17/2025 to 10/15/2025 documents orders for skilled services to include Skilled Nurse, Physical Therapist, and Speech Therapist, and the following orders for Home Health Aide services: “for assistance with the child’s personal care and ADLS (Activities of Daily Living) secondary to functional limitations,” “Monday - Friday 5 Hours (daily), Saturday - Sunday 10 Hours (daily), increase (home health aide) up to 12 hours (daily) for school closure due to federal holidays, school administrative needs, medical appointments, sick day(s).” The Registered Nurse Pediatric Recertification assessment dated 8/13/2025 documents the following: “Patient is nonverbal. Caregiver reports ongoing difficulty with daily living activities, including hygiene, dressing and behavior management;” “primary focus on patient’s safety.” The clinical record documents the skilled nurse conducted a supervision of aide services on 8/13/2025 and the Speech Therapist conducted a subsequent supervision on 9/2/2025, twenty (20) days later. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide(s) being supervised every 14 days to ensure services are safely being provided and in accordance with the aide plan of care. There is no documented evidence of the Clinical Manager monitoring the compliance of aide supervision, in accordance with the agency’s policy. On 10/16/2025 at 10:50 AM the Administrator and the Director of Patient Service were interviewed, and the Director of Patient Services stated “I have nothing else” to provide for the finding.”

    Rule G0808. Element-level. From a complaint.

Sep 16, 2025: complaint inspection2 deficiencies
  • Discharge Plans Communication

    The inspectors’ words, 333 words

    “Discharge plans communication CFR(s): 484.60(c)(3)(ii) (ii) Any revisions related to plans for the patient’s discharge must be communicated to the patient, representative, caregiver, all physicians or allowed practitioner’s issuing orders for the HHA plan of care, and the patient’s primary care practitioner or other health care professional who will be responsible for providing care and services to the patient after discharge from the HHA (if any). This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record reviews and staff interview, the agency failed to ensure any revision to the patient’s discharge is communicated to the patient and physician. This was evident for one (1) of six (6) clinical records reviewed (Patient #2). Failure to ensure that any revision to the patient’s discharge is communicated to the patient and physician has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: The agency “Criteria of Discharge - Transfer Discharge Summary” policy and procedure with a reviewed date of 08/04/2025 documents, “A patient is discharged from agency after notification of the authorized practitioner and consultation with the patient and any other professional staff involved in coordinating the plan of care no less than 48 hours prior to patient discharge.” 1. Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 07/15/2025 and discharge date of 08/28/2025 with diagnoses of Essential (Primary) Hypertension, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without Complications and Chronic Ischemic Heart Disease, Unspecified documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care with a Certification Period from 07/15/2025 to 09/12/2025. The clinical record documents the last skilled Physical Therapy visit was on 08/26/2025. The patient was discharged from the agency on 08/28/2025. A medical order dated 08/28/2025 documents, “Order Type: Discharge From Agency.” There is no documented evidence of the agency informing the patient and the physician no less than 48 hours prior to discharge that the patient would be discharged from the agency on 08/28/2025. On 09/16/2025 at 1:35 PM, the Director of Compliance was interviewed and did not provide an explanation.”

    Rule G0598. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Coordinate Care Delivery

    The inspectors’ words, 764 words

    “Coordinate care delivery CFR(s): 484.60(d)(4) Coordinate care delivery to meet the patient’s needs, and involve the patient, representative (if any), and caregiver(s), as appropriate, in the coordination of care activities. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record reviews and staff interview, the agency failed to coordinate care delivery and to involve the patient or representative in coordination of care activities. This was evident for two (2) of six (6) clinical records reviewed (Patients #1 and #2). Failure to ensure patient care delivery is coordinated and involves the patient or representative in the coordination of care activities has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: 1. Patient #1 has a Start of Care Date of 06/13/2025 and discharge date of 08/11/2025 with diagnoses of Acute Cystitis without Hematuria, Orthostatic Hypotension, and Unspecified Dementia documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care with a Certification Period from 06/13/2025 to 08/11/2025. The patient’s home health aide services were provided by a Licensed Home Care Services (LHCSA) vendor agency. A “Member Note” in HHA Exchange with a created date of 08/01/2025 by the LHCSA vendor documents, “Call patient’s son (name of son) and apologized due to aide didn’t show up. I inform him we looking for someone. Patient’s son very upset he said he don’t care we need to send some someone asap (as soon as possible). He also want to talk to director.” HHA Exchange is a software program that allows communication and data exchange between providers (Certified Home Health Agencies and Licensed Home Care Agencies). There is no documented evidence of the agency coordinating with the vendor agency for any schedule changes or issues that could impact the quality of the home health aide services. On 09/16/2025 at 11:35 AM, the Director of Compliance was interviewed and stated, “there is no alert” (sent to the Americare CSS when a note is entered in HHA Exchange by the vendor) and “someone would have to be actively reviewing (HHA Exchange).” An Occupational Therapy “Visit Note Report” dated 08/08/2025 documents, “Was the NOMNC (Notice of Medicare Non-Coverage) delivered to the patient? No. Specify reason why NOMNC was not delivered to patient: Patient’s son (primary caregiver) was unavailable during visit and patient was unable to understand NOMNC due to cognitive impairments.” The clinical record documents the last skilled Occupational Therapy visit was on 08/11/2025. The patient was discharged from the agency on 08/11/2025. There is no documented evidence of the agency coordinating with the patient’s caregiver to provide the Notice of Medical Care Non-Coverage within two days of terminating the patient’s services on 08/11/2025. On 09/16/2025 at 1:35 PM, the Director of Compliance was interviewed and did not provide an explanation. 2. Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 07/15/2025 and discharge date of 08/26/2025 with diagnoses of Essential (Primary) Hypertension, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without Complications and Chronic Ischemic Heart Disease, Unspecified documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care with a Certification Period from 07/15/2025 to 09/12/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care with a Certification Period from 07/15/2025 to 09/12/2025 (medical orders) documents orders for “HHA 2WK1, 5WK7, 2WK1” (Home Health Aide, 2 times a week for 1 week, 5 times a week for 7 weeks, and 2 times a week for 1 week). The agency’s work week is Sunday to Saturday. The home health aide (hha) services for 2 times a week for 1 week should have started the work week of 07/13/2025. The Patient Calendar documents hha services did not start until the following work week of 07/20/2025. The first day the hha provided services was on 07/23/2025. There is no documented evidence the patient was informed of the delay in starting hha services. On 09/16/2025 at 9:40 AM, the Director of Compliance was interviewed and stated, “there should have been a communication” (to the patient about the delay in starting hha services). For the week of 08/17/2025, the patient calendar lacks documented evidence hha services were provided on 08/18/2025 and 08/19/2025. Home Health Aide services resumed on 08/20/2025. On 09/16/2025 at 1:35 PM, the Director of Compliance was interviewed and stated the authorizations (for home health aide services) are provided in two-week intervals and there were no authorizations for 8/18 and 8/19. There is no documented evidence of the agency communicating with the patient the reasons for not providing hha services on 08/18/2025 and 08/19/2025, and when hha services would resume. On 09/16/2025 at 1:35 PM, the Director of Compliance stated it should have been communicated to the patient.”

    Rule G0608. Element-level. From a complaint.

Jul 22, 2025: complaint inspection1 deficiency
  • Investigate Complaints Made By Patient

    The inspectors’ words, 304 words

    “Investigate complaints made by patient CFR(s): 484.50(e)(1)(i) The HHA must— (i) Investigate complaints made by a patient, the patient’s representative (if any), and the patient’s caregivers and family, including, but not limited to, the following topics: (A) Treatment or care that is (or fails to be) furnished, is furnished inconsistently, or is furnished inappropriately; (B) Mistreatment, neglect, or verbal, mental, sexual, and physical abuse, including injuries of unknown source, and/or misappropriation of patient property by anyone furnishing services on behalf of the HHA. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical records review and staff interview the agency failed to complete an investigation of all complaints. This was evident for one (1) of three (3) clinical records reviewed (Patient #1). Failure to complete an investigation of all complaints, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Finding Are: 1.Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 02/14/2023 with the following diagnosis “Autistic Disorder” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 02/14/2023 to 04/14/2023, 10/06/2024 to 12/04/2024, 12/05/2024 to 02/02/2025, 02/03/2025 to 04/03/2025, 04/04/2025 to 06/02/2025, and 06/03/205 to 08/01/2025. The Complaint dated 04/03/2025 documents: “Additionally, there were issues with timeliness, and OT (Occupational Therapy) frequently complained about the distance to the patient’s house.” The email (from mother to the agency) dated 06/10/2025 documents: “This provider was often late to sessions, would no show at times and would often “complain” about the distance of my home as well as location. I reported this to her supervisor and my daughter’s coordinator to ensure they were aware.” There is no documented evidence of the allegation regarding late sessions being addressed in the complaint investigation on 04/03/2025. On 07/22/2025 at 3:30 PM, the Director of Quality Management/Compliance was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0478. Element-level. From a complaint.

Jun 26, 2025: complaint inspection4 deficiencies
  • Plan Of Care

    The inspectors’ words, 1,722 words

    “Plan of care CFR(s): 484.60(a)(1) Each patient must receive the home health services that are written in an individualized plan of care that identifies patient-specific measurable outcomes and goals, and which is established, periodically reviewed, and signed by a doctor of medicine, osteopathy, or podiatry acting within the scope of his or her state license, certification, or registration. If a physician or allowed practitioner refers a patient under a plan of care that cannot be completed until after an evaluation visit, the physician or allowed practitioner is consulted to approve additions or modifications to the original plan. This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interviews, the agency failed to ensure that each patient receives the services that are documented in the individualized plan of care. This was evident for six (6) of six (6) clinical records reviewed (Patients #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 and #6). Failure to ensure each patient receives the services that are documented in the plan of care has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: 4. Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 05/16/2025 with the following diagnoses “Bilateral Primary Osteoarthritis of Knee, History of Falling” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 05/16/2025 to 07/14/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 05/16/2025 to 07/14/2025 documents: “SN (Skilled Nurse) 1WK4, 1EVERY2WK2,1WK1 (once a week for four weeks, once every two weeks two times, once a week for one week); PT (Physical Therapy) effective 5/18/2025 2WK5 (twice a week for five weeks); OT (Occupational Therapy) effective 5/18/2025 2WK1, 1EVERY2WK2 (twice a week for one week, once every two weeks two times).” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Skilled Nurse service being provided for the week of 05/18/2025 to 05/24/2025, missed one visit; and the Occupation Therapy being provided for the week of 05/18/2025 to 05/24/2025 missed two visits and for the week of 06/08/2025 to 06/21/2025 missed one visit. There is no documented evidence that the patient receiving the Skilled Nurse and Occupation Therapy services as documented in the individualized plan of care. On 06/26/2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 5. Patient #5 has a Start of Care date of 04/25/2025 with the following diagnoses “Alzheimer’s Disease, Essential Hypertension” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 04/25/2025 to 06/23/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 04/25/2025 to 06/23/2025 documents: “SN (Skilled Nurse) 1WK2, 1EVERY2WK4, and 1WK1 (once a week for two weeks, once every two weeks four times, once a week for one week); PT (Physical Therapy) effective 04/27/2025 1WK1, 2WK7 (once a week for one week and twice a week for seven weeks). The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Physical Therapy service being provided for the week of 05/11/2025 to 05/17/2025, missed one visit. There is no documented evidence of the patient receiving the Physical Therapy services as documented in the individualized plan of care. On 06/26/2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 6. Patient #6 has a Start of Care date of 03/27/2025 with the following diagnoses “Unspecified Dementia, Anxiety Disorder, Essential Hypertension” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 03/27/2025 to 05/25/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 03/27/2025 to 05/25/2025 documents: “SN (Skilled Nurse) 1WK4, 1EVERY2WK4 (once a week for four weeks, once every two weeks four times), and effective 04/20/2025 SN (Skilled Nurse) 1WK2, 1EVERY2WK4 (once a week for two weeks, once every two weeks four twice); PT (Physical Therapy) 1WK1 (once a week for one week), and effective 4/20/2025 1WK1, 2WK4 (once a week for one week, twice a week for four weeks). The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Skilled Nurse service being provided for the week of 03/30/2025 to 04/05/2025, missed one visit, the week of 04/13/2025 to 04/19/2025, missed one visit, the week of 04/27/2025 to 05/03/2025, missed one visit. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Physical Therapy service being provided for the week of 03/23/2025 to 03/29/2025, missed one visit, the week of 04/27/2025 to 05/03/2025, missed one visit, and the week of 05/18/2025 to 05/24/2025, missed one visit. There is no documented evidence that the patient receiving the Skilled Nurse and Physical Therapy services as documented in the individualized plan of care. On 06/26/2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 1. Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 08/16/2024 and Discharge Date of 02/11/2025 with the following diagnoses “Traumatic Subdural Hemorrhage Without Loss of Consciousness, Pneumonitis due to Inhalation of Food and Vomit, Unspecified Nondisplaced Fracture of Fifth Cervical Vertebra, Fracture of Orbit, unspecified, Maxillary fracture, unspecified side, Fracture of nasal bones” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period (s) 08/16/2024 to 10/14/2024; 10/15/2024 to 12/13/2024; 12/14/2024 to 02/11/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period(s) 08/16/2024 to 10/14/2024; 10/15/2024 to 12/13/2024; 12/14/2024 to 02/11/2025 documents “Licensed Professional to report Vital Signs falling outside the following established parameters: Temperature. 99.6 (less than 95, greater than 99.6); Pulse 100 (less than 60, greater than 100); Respiration 20 (less than 12, greater than 20); Systolic BP (Blood Pressure) 40 (less than 90, greater than 140); Diastolic BP (Blood Pressure) 90 ( less than 60 ,greater than 90) and RBS (Random Blood Sugar) 240 (less than 60, greater than 240).” Interim / Supplemental Order No. 345417, Order Date 09/03/2024 documents “Service Changes: Calendar Frequency; OT (occupational Therapy) Effective 09/01/2024: 2WK6 (two times a week for six weeks).” Interim / Supplemental Order No. 345417, Order Date 09/10/2024 documents “Service Changes: Calendar Frequency; PT (Physical Therapy) Effective 09/08/2024: 3WK1 (three times a week for one week); 4WK2 (four times a week for two weeks), 3WK2 (three times a week for 2 weeks) and 1WK1 (once for one week).” The (Occupational Therapy) Evaluation and Visits documents “Vitals: Temp (Temperature): N/A (Not Applicable); Pulse: N/A (Not Applicable); BP (Blood Pressure): N/A (Not Applicable); Resp (Respiration): N/A (Not Applicable)” on the following dates: 08/29/2024, 09/11/2024, 09/12/2024, 09/17/2024, 09/24/2024, 09/26/2024, 10/01/2024, 10/03/2024, 10/08/2024, 10/10/2024, 10/24/2024, 10/31/2024, 11/01/2024, 11/05/2024, 11/12/2024, 11/14/2024, 11/19/2024, 11/21/2024,11/26/2024, 11/28/2024, 12/03/2024, 12/05/2024, 12/10/2024, 12/17/2024, 01/13/2025, 01/22/2025, 01/25/2025, 01/26/2025, 01/28/2025, 02/04/2025, 02/05/2025, and 02/09/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the patient’s vital signs being completed by licensed Occupational Therapist to report if falling outside the established parameters as ordered in the plan of care. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Occupational Therapy service being provided as ordered for the week of 09/01/2024 to 09/07/2024, missed two visits, and the week of 09/15/2024 to 09/21/2024 missed one visit. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Physical Therapy service being provided as ordered for the week of 09/08/2024 to 09/14/2024, missed two visits, the week of 09/15/2024 to 09/21/2024, missed two visits, and the week of 09/22/2004 to 09/28/2025, missed one visit. There is no documented evidence that the patient received the Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy services as documented in the individualized plan of care. On 06/26//2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #3 has a Start of Care date of 02/20/2025 and Discharge Date of 04/10/2025 with the following diagnoses “Hypertensive Chronic Kidney Disease with Stage 1 through Stage 4 chronic kidney disease, or unspecified chronic kidney disease, Chronic Kidney Disease Unspecified, Anxiety Disorder, Unspecified” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 02/20/2025 to 04/20/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 02/20/2025 to 04/20/2025 documents HHA (Home Health Aide) Effective 03/09/2025:4WK1 (four times a week for one week); and 5WK5 (five times a week for five weeks).” Interim / Supplemental Order No. 431754, Order Date 03/06/2025 documents “Service Changes: Calendar Frequency; SN (Skilled Nursing) Effective 03/09/2025: 4WK1 (four times a week for one week); and 1WK5 (once a week for five weeks).” Interim / Supplemental Order No. 452069, Order Date 04/14/2025 documents “Service Changes: Calendar Frequency: HHA (Home Health Aide) Effective 04/06/2025: 3WK1 (three times a week for one week); HHA (Home Health Aide) removed as of 04/10/2025.” The Aide Duty Sheets documents aide services started on 03/25/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the HHA (Home Health Aide) being provided as ordered for the week of 03/09/2025 to 03/15/2025, missed four visits, the week of 03/16/2025 to 03/22/2025 missed five visits, and the week of 03/23/2025 to 03/29/2025 missed two visits. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Skilled Nursing being provided as ordered for the week of 02/23/2025 to 03/01/2025, missed two visits, and the week of 03/09/2025 to 03/15/2025 missed two visits. There is no documented evidence that the patient received the HHA (Home Health Aide) and Skilled Nursing services as written in the individualized plan of care. On 06/26//2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 3. Patient #4 has a Start of Care date of 04/14/2025 and Resumption of Care date of 06/04/2025 with the following diagnoses: “Atherosclerotic Heart Disease of Native Coronary Artery without Angina Pectoris, Urinary Tract Infection, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Diabetic Chronic Kidney Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 04/14/2025 to 06/12/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 04/14/2025 to 06/12/2025 documents “PT (Physical Therapy) 2WK2 (two times a week for two weeks); and 1WK5 (once a week for five weeks).” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Physical Therapy being provided as ordered for the week of 04/20/2025 to 04/26/2025, missed one visit. There is no documented evidence that the patient received the Physical Therapy services as documented in the individualized plan of care. On 06/26//2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0572. Standard-level. From a complaint.

  • Promptly Alert Relevant Physician Of Changes

    The inspectors’ words, 1,622 words

    “Promptly alert relevant physician of changes CFR(s): 484.60(c)(1) The HHA must promptly alert the relevant physician(s) or allowed practitioner(s) to any changes in the patient’s condition or needs that suggest that outcomes are not being achieved and/or that the plan of care should be altered. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical records review and staff interview, the agency failed to promptly alert the relevant physician(s) or allowed practitioner(s) to any changes in the patient’s condition or needs that suggest that outcomes are not being achieved and/or that the plan of care should be altered. This was evident for five (5) of six (6) clinical records reviewed (Patients #1, #2, #4, #5 and #6). Failure to ensure the relevant physician(s) or allowed practitioner(s) promptly alerted of any changes in the patient’s condition has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: 3. Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 05/16/2025 with the following diagnoses “Bilateral Primary Osteoarthritis of Knee, History of Falling” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 05/16/2025 to 07/14/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 05/16/2025 to 07/14/2025 documents: “SN (Skilled Nurse) 1WK4, 1EVERY2WK2,1WK1 (once a week for four weeks, once every two weeks two times, once a week for one week); PT (Physical Therapy) effective 5/18/2025 2WK5 (twice a week for five weeks); OT (Occupational Therapy) effective 5/18/2025 2WK1, 1EVERY2WK2 (twice a week for one week, once every two weeks two times).” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Skilled Nurse services being provided for the week of 05/18/2025 to 05/24/2025, missed one visit; and the Occupation Therapy being provided for the week of 05/18/2025 to 05/24/2025 missed two visits, and the week of 06/08/2025 to 06/21/2025 missed one visit. The Client Scheduling Calendar Report documents the following: Monday 05/19/2025; Entered by OT (Occupational Therapist): “No need visit – Schedule change.” Thursday 05/22/2025; Entered by RN (Registered Nurse): “No need visit – Schedule change.” There is no documented evidence of the physician or allowed practitioner being promptly notified of the missed visits and schedule changes. On 06/26//2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management was interviewed and stated, “It’s the communication piece that is very important, we planning to have a new department that will put things in place.” 4. Patient #5 has a Start of Care date of 04/25/2025 with the following diagnoses “Alzheimer’s Disease, Essential Hypertension” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 04/25/2025 to 06/23/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 04/25/2025 to 06/23/2025 documents: “SN (Skilled Nurse) 1WK2, 1EVERY2WK4, and 1WK1 (once a week for two weeks, once every two weeks four times, once a week for one week); PT (Physical Therapy) effective 04/27/2025 1WK1, 2WK7 (once a week for one week and twice a week for seven weeks). The clinical record lacks documented evidence of Physical Therapy services being provided for the week of 05/11/2025 to 05/17/2025, missed one visit. The Client Coordination Note Report documents the following: Note Date 05/16/2025: “Date of Missed Visit: 5/16/2025; Discipline: PT (Physical Therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: Medical Appointments.; Name of MD Notified: Blank.” The Client Scheduling Calendar Report documents the following: Friday 05/16/2025; Entered by PT (Physical Therapist): “No need visit – Patient had Physician appointment.” There is no documented evidence of the physician or allowed practitioner being promptly notified of the missed visits and schedule changes. On 06/26//2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management was interviewed and stated, “It’s the communication piece that is very important, we planning to have a new department that will put things in place.” . Patient #6 has a Start of Care date of 03/27/2025 with the following diagnoses “Unspecified Dementia, Anxiety Disorder, Essential Hypertension” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 03/27/2025 to 05/25/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 03/27/2025 to 05/25/2025 documents: “SN (Skilled Nurse) 1WK4, 1EVERY2WK4 (once a week for four weeks, once every two weeks four times), and effective 04/20/2025 SN (Skilled Nurse) 1WK2, 1EVERY2WK4 (once a week for two weeks, once every two weeks four twice); PT (Physical Therapy) 1WK1 (once a week for one week), and effective 4/20/2025 1WK1, 2WK4 (once a week for one week, twice a week for four weeks). The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Skilled Nurse services being provided for the week of 03/30/2025 to 04/05/2025, missed one visit, the week of 04/13/2025 to 04/19/2025, missed one visit, and the week of 04/27/2025 to 05/03/2025, missed one visit; and Physical Therapy services being provided for the week of 03/23/2025 to 03/29/2025, missed one visit, the week of 04/27/2025 to 05/03/2025, missed one visit, and the week of 05/18/2025 to 05/24/2025, missed one visit. The Client Coordination Note Reports dated 04/04/2025, 04/17/2025, 04/18/2025, 05/01/2025, and 05/16/2025 documents various Missed Visit Notifications with “Name of MD Notified: None.” There is no documented evidence of the physician or allowed practitioner being promptly notified of the missed visits and schedule changes. On 06/26//2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management was interviewed and stated, “It’s the communication piece that is very important, we planning to have a new department that will put things in place.” The Policies and Procedures Title: Coordination of Services, reviewed 09/01/2024 documents on page 1, No. 5 “Americare staff promptly contacts the physician/contact: 5.2 When there are changes in the patient’s expected response to treatment and/or medications. “ 1. Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 08/16/2024 and Discharge Date of 02/11/2025 with the following diagnoses “Traumatic Subdural Hemorrhage Without Loss of Consciousness, Pneumonitis due to Inhalation of Food and Vomit, Unspecified Nondisplaced Fracture of Fifth Cervical Vertebra, Fracture of Orbit, unspecified, Maxillary fracture, unspecified side, Fracture of nasal bones” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 08/16/2024 to 10/14/2024. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 08/16/2024 to 10/14/2024 documents “PT (Physical Therapy) Effective 08/18/2024: 1WK1 (once for one week); 2WK2 (two times a week for two weeks); 1WK4 (once a week for four weeks).” Interim / Supplemental Order No. 345417, Order Date 09/10/2024 documents “Service Changes: Calendar Frequency; PT (Physical Therapy) Effective 09/08/2024: 3WK1 (three times a week for one week); 4WK2 (four times a week for two weeks), 3WK2 (three times a week for 2 weeks) and 1WK1 (once for one week).” The Client Coordination Note Report documents the following: Note Date 08/20/2024; Entered By (“Name, PT”); “Patient could not be seen yesterday as Scheduler could not confirm if case has been opened due to her computer problems. Visit is being moved to 8/20/2024.” Note Date 08/21/2024: Entered By (“Name, PT”); “Made call to patient’s home yesterday but there was no response. I called back this morning and the call was answered; we agreed to make the visit tomorrow on 8/22/2024.Scheduler (“Name”) accordingly.” Note Date 08/22/2024: Entered By (“Name, PT”); “Patient was seen on 8/22/2024 for PT (Physical Therapy) Evaluation Visit). Patient will benefit from Restorative PT program tentatively 2X2 Weeks (two times a week for two weeks), 1X4 weeks (once a week for four weeks). Received a call from the Doctor 30 (thirty minutes later and received verbal orders from him for continuation of care for the patient.” The Notes dated 09/14/2024, 09/17/2024, 09/19/2024, and 09/24/2024 documents various Missed Visit Notifications with “Name of MD Notified: Blank.” The Client Scheduling Calendar Report documents on 09/06/2024 and 09/13/2024 “PT (Physical Therapy.)-No Need Visit-Schedule Change.” The Client Scheduling Calendar Report dated 09/05/2024, 09/06/2024 and 09/13/2024 documents “OT (Occupational Therapy), No Need Visit-No answer door/phone”, and the Client Scheduling Calendar Report dated 10/29/2024, 11/09/2024, 11/12/2024, 12/12/2024 and 01/15/2025 documents “OT (Occupational Therapy), No Need Visit-Caregiver refused.” The Omit/ Missed Visit dated 01/15/2025 documents’ “Cancellation Details; Therapy Type: OT (Occupational Therapy); Reason for missed visit: Therapist had to cancel session due to inability to attend session in result of acute illness.; Was the Physician notified: No; Was the agency notified: No; Did you try to reschedule: No; Did you drive out to the patient: No.” There is no documented evidence of the physician or allowed practitioner being promptly notified of the missed visits and schedule changes affecting the patient’s expected outcome to the physical and occupational therapy treatment. On 06/26//2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #4 has a Start of Care date of 04/14/2025 and Resumption of Care date of 06/04/2025 with the following diagnoses: “Atherosclerotic Heart Disease of Native Coronary Artery without Angina Pectoris, Urinary Tract Infection, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Diabetic Chronic Kidney Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 04/14/2025 to 06/12/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 04/14/2025 to 06/12/2025 documents SN (Skilled Nursing) 1WK2 (once a week for two weeks); and 1EVERY2WK6 (once every two weeks for six weeks).” The Client Coordination Note Report documents the following: Note Date 06/04/2025; Note Type: Medication Interaction; Entered By (“Name, RN”); “Cefpodoxime 100mg (milligram) tablet interacts with Pantoprazole 40mg (milligram) tablet delayed release; Severity Level 2- Severe Interaction; Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.” There is no documented evidence of the physician or allowed practitioner being promptly notified of the medication interaction or needs that suggest that the plan of care should be altered. On 06/26//2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0590. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Discharge Plans Communication

    The inspectors’ words, 665 words

    “Discharge plans communication CFR(s): 484.60(c)(3)(ii) (ii) Any revisions related to plans for the patient’s discharge must be communicated to the patient, representative, caregiver, all physicians or allowed practitioner’s issuing orders for the HHA plan of care, and the patient’s primary care practitioner or other health care professional who will be responsible for providing care and services to the patient after discharge from the HHA (if any). This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interviews, the governing authority failed to ensure any revision for the patient’s discharges is communicated to the patient, caregivers, and physicians. This was evident for two (2) of six (6) clinical records reviewed (Patients #1and #3). Failure to ensure that any revision for the patient’s discharges is communicated to the patient, caregivers, and physicians has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: 1. Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 08/16/2024 and Discharge Date of 02/11/2025 with the following diagnoses “Traumatic Subdural Hemorrhage Without Loss of Consciousness, Pneumonitis due to Inhalation of Food and Vomit, Unspecified Nondisplaced Fracture of Fifth Cervical Vertebra, Fracture of Orbit, unspecified, Maxillary fracture, unspecified side, Fracture of nasal bones” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/14/2024 to 02/11/2025. The Policies and Procedures Title: Criteria of Discharge- Transfer Discharge Summary, reviewed 09/07/2024 documents: “A patient is discharged from agency after notification of the authorized practitioner and consultation with the patient and any other professional staff involved in coordinating the plan of care no less than 48 (forty-eight) hours prior to patient discharge. The Patient Welcome Package documents “Admission, Transfer, and Discharge Criteria: Additional Discharge and Transfer Information: Specific Discharge plans are discussed by the Registered Nurse / Therapist with you or your patient representative (if any) at least one (1) week prior to the expected discharge.” The Notice of Medicare Non-Coverage documents “ The effective date coverage of your current OT (Occupational Therapy) services will end: 2025-02-10 (February 10, 2025).”, signed by patient’s authorized representative dated 02/09/2025; same day of the patient’s last OT (Occupational Therapy) service on 02/09/2025. The PT (Physical Therapy) Visit Date 02/10/2025, documents “Patient and Spouse notified about planned discharged. Patient will be discharged from Skilled PT (Physical Therapy)”, same day of the patient’s last PT (physical Therapy) services on 02/10/2025.” The Client Coordination Note Report documents the following: Note Date 02/11/2025; Entered By (“Name, PT”); “Patient and spouse notified about planned discharge. Patient discharged from Skilled PT (Physical Therapy) services due to reached maximum rehab potential”, same day of the patient’s discharge from the agency on 02/11/2025. Interim / Supplemental Order No. 419623, Order Date: 02/11/2025 documents “Order Type: Discharge from Agency; Order Description: Client no longer requires skill.” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of patient’s discharge plan communication, or any revisions related to the plan with the authorized practitioner and the patient or family prior to the patient’s discharge. On 06/26//2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management was interviewed and stated, “Discharge and Transfer procedure is included in the admission welcome packet, “Patient’s name (Patient#1) received the admission packet.” 2. Patient #3 has a Start of Care date of 02/20/2025 and Discharge Date of 04/10/2025 with the following diagnoses “Hypertensive Chronic Kidney Disease with Stage 1 through Stage 4 chronic kidney disease, or unspecified chronic kidney disease, Chronic Kidney Disease Unspecified, Anxiety Disorder, Unspecified” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 02/20/2025 to 04/20/2025. The Client Coordination Note Report documents the following: Note Date 04/07/2025; Note Type: Case Conference: Entered By (“Name, RN”); “Recertifi (Recertification) due to continue wound care.” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of discharge communication or any revisions to the patient’s discharge plan with the authorized practitioner and the patient or family prior to the patient’s discharge on 04/10/2025. On 06/26//2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0598. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Coordinate Care Delivery

    The inspectors’ words, 1,129 words

    “Coordinate care delivery CFR(s): 484.60(d)(4) Coordinate care delivery to meet the patient’s needs, and involve the patient, representative (if any), and caregiver(s), as appropriate, in the coordination of care activities. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interview, the agency failed to coordinate care delivery and to involve the patient in coordination of care activities. This was evident for three (3) of six (6) clinical records reviewed. (Patients #1, #2 and #6). Failure to ensure patient care delivery is coordinated and involves the patient in the coordination of care activities, has the potential for negative patient outcome. The findings are: 2. Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 05/16/2025 with the following diagnoses “Bilateral Primary Osteoarthritis of Knee, History of Falling” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 05/16/2025 to 07/14/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 05/16/2025 to 07/14/2025 documents: “OT (Occupational Therapy) effective 5/18/2025 2WK1, 1EVERY2WK2 (twice a week for one week, once every two weeks two times).” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of Occupational Therapy being provided week the week of 05/18/2025 to 05/24/2025, two missed visits and the weeks 06/08/2025 to 06/21/2025 one missed visit. The “Occupation Therapy add-on evaluation” dated 06/06/2025 documents the Occupational Therapy evaluation was conducted on 06/06/2025, more than two weeks after the effective date of 05/18/2025. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the agency informing the patient of the delay in providing Occupational Therapy services. There is no documented evidence of the agency coordinating care delivery and involving the patient in changes in services to be furnished. On 06/26/2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 3. Patient #6 has a Start of Care date of 03/27/2025 with the following diagnoses “Unspecified Dementia, Anxiety Disorder, Essential Hypertension” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 03/27/2025 to 05/25/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 03/27/2025 to 05/25/2025 documents: “PT (Physical Therapy) 1WK1 (once a week for one week), and effective 4/20/2025 1WK1, 2WK4 (once a week for one week, twice a week for four weeks). The clinical record lacks documented evidence of physical therapy service being provided the week of 03/23/2025 to 03/29/2025, one missed visit. The Client Coordination Note Report dated 04/04/2025 documented a note by (GA), Physical Therapist: “Please be informed that patient was unreachable despite several attempts.” On 06/26/2025 the agency’s Complaint and Incident logs were reviewed. The Complaint and Incident logs documents Patient’s #6 complaint/incident on 04/22/2025: “The patient has not received any phone calls from the Rehab Department. She is in need of physical therapy services and is very disappointed with the lack of follow up.” QM (Quality Manager) investigation documented: “04/04/2025, it has been reported by Physical Therapist (GA), that patient declined PT (Physical Therapy) services. 04/22/2025 QM service call made, and patient confirmed of needing the PT services. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the agency informing the patient of the delay in providing physical therapy services. There is no documented evidence of the agency coordinating care delivery and involving the patient in changes in services to be furnished, as specified in the agency’s coordination policies. On 06/26/2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. The agency’s “Coordination of Patient Care” Policy documents: “Coordination of Agency’s internal resources includes Notifying the patient in a timely manner about schedule changes.” The agency’s “Coordination of Services” Policy documents: “Coordination of services activities is documented in the patient’s home care record. Each record shall contain up-to-date information regarding: Communication between involved parties.” 1.Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 08/16/2024 and Discharge Date of 02/11/2025 with the following diagnoses “Traumatic Subdural Hemorrhage Without Loss of Consciousness, Pneumonitis due to Inhalation of Food and Vomit, Unspecified Nondisplaced Fracture of Fifth Cervical Vertebra, Fracture of Orbit, unspecified, Maxillary fracture, unspecified side, Fracture of nasal bones” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period (s) 08/16/2024 to 10/14/2024; 10/15/2024 to 12/13/2024; 12/14/2024 and 02/11/2025. The Client Coordination Note Report documents the following: Note Date 08/22/2024: Entered By (“Name, PT”); “Patient was seen on 8/22/2024 for PT (Physical Therapy) Evaluation Visit). Patient will benefit from Restorative PT program tentatively 2X2 Weeks (two times a week for two weeks), 1X4 weeks (once a week for four weeks). Received a call from the Doctor 30 (thirty minutes later and received verbal orders from him for continuation of care for the patient.” The Notes dated 09/14/2024, 09/17/2024, 09/19/2024, and 09/24/2024 documents various Missed Visit Notifications with “Name of MD Notified: Blank.” The Client Scheduling Calendar Report documents on 09/06/2024 and 09/13/2024 “No Need Visit-Schedule Change PT (Physical Therapy.)” Interim / Supplemental Order No. 341668, Order Date: 09/03/2024 documents “Order Description OT (Occupational Therapy) 1WK1 (once for one week)-Service Delay due to no available OT (Occupational Therapy) to service area/ referred to outside vendor; Service Changes: Calendar Frequency: OT (Occupational Therapy) Effective 08/25/2024, 1WK1 (once for one week)” Interim / Supplemental Order No. 367338, Order Date: 10/28/2024 documents “Order Description OT (Occupational Therapy) 1WK1 (once for one week) for Eval (Evaluation)-Service Delay due to no available OT (Occupational Therapy) to service area/ referred to outside vendor; Service Changes: Calendar Frequency: OT (Occupational Therapy) Effective 08/25/2024, 1WK1 (once for one week).” Interim / Supplemental Order No. 400041, Order Date: 01/06/202 documents “Order Description OT (Occupational Therapy) 1WK1 (once for one week) for Eval (Evaluation)-Service Delay due to no available OT (Occupational Therapy) to service area/ referred to outside vendor; Service Changes: Calendar Frequency: OT (Occupational Therapy) Effective 01/05/2025, 1WK1 (once for one week).” The Client Scheduling Calendar Report dated 09/05/2024, 09/06/2024 and 09/13/2024 documents “OT (Occupational Therapy), No Need Visit-No answer door/phone”, and the Client Scheduling Calendar Report dated 10/29/2024, 11/09/2024, 11/12/2024, 12/12/2024 and 01/15/2025 documents “OT (Occupational Therapy), No Need Visit-Caregiver refused.” The Omit/ Missed Visit dated 01/15/2025 documents’ “Cancellation Details; Therapy Type: OT (Occupational Therapy); Reason for missed visit: Therapist had to cancel session due to inability to attend session in result of acute illness.; Was the Physician notified: No; Was the agency notified: No; Did you try to reschedule: No; Did you drive out to the patient: No.” There is no documented evidence of the coordination of care with the patient or family for the delay in services, schedule changes and missed visits. On 06/26//2025 at 11:10AM, the Director of Quality Management was interviewed and stated, “It’s the communication piece that is very important, as we plan to put a new department in place.””

    Rule G0608. Element-level. From a complaint.

Jan 24, 2025: complaint inspection10 deficiencies
  • Plan Of Care

    The inspectors’ words, 1,538 words

    “Plan of care CFR(s): 484.60(a)(1) Each patient must receive the home health services that are written in an individualized plan of care that identifies patient-specific measurable outcomes and goals, and which is established, periodically reviewed, and signed by a doctor of medicine, osteopathy, or podiatry acting within the scope of his or her state license, certification, or registration. If a physician or allowed practitioner refers a patient under a plan of care that cannot be completed until after an evaluation visit, the physician or allowed practitioner is consulted to approve additions or modifications to the original plan. This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interviews, the governing authority failed to ensure that each patient must receive the services that are written in the individualized plan of care. This was evident for seven (7) of eight (8) clinical records reviewed (Patients #1, #2, #4, #5, #6, #7, and #8). Failure to ensure each patient must receive the services that are written in the plan of care has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: 5. Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 09/30/2024 with the following diagnoses “Atrial Fibrillation, Sepsis due to Enterococcus” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 09/30/2024 to 11/28/2024. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 09/30/2024 to 11/28/2024 documents: “SN (skilled nurse) 1WK1 (once for one week), 1 every 3WK3 (once every three weeks for three weeks), 1 every 2WK2 (once every two weeks for two weeks).” “HHA (home health aide) 2WK1 (twice a week for one week), 5WK7 (five times a week for seven weeks), 2WK1 (twice a week for one week).” The Client Coordination Note Report dated 10/02/2024 documents: “Pt (patient) eval (evaluation) SN (skilled nurse) 1W3 (once a week for three weeks) cardiac assessment safety at home Dementia care education.” The plan of care lacks documented evidence of the skilled nurse services frequency change from the initial orders. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of aide services being provided 09/30/2024 to 10/05/2024, missed two visits; and 10/06/2024 to 10/12/2024, missed five visits. There is no documented evidence that the patient received the services that are written in the individualized plan of care. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 6. Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 11/12/2024 with the following diagnoses “Spondylosis with Radiculopathy Lumbar Region, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/16/2024 to 01/14/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/16/2024 to 01/14/2025 documents: “SN (skilled nurse) 1WK2 (once a week for two weeks), 1 every 2WK4 (once every two weeks for four weeks).” The Medical Order dated 12/30/2024 documents: “Patient unable to be contacted by clinicians after multiple attempts. Case DC (discharge) from (Americare Certified Special Services) a/o (as of) last visit 11/25/24.” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the skilled nurse visit for the once every two weeks for four weeks on 11/24/2024 to 12/07/2024, missed one visit; and 12/08/2024 to 12/21/2024, missed one visit. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the multiple attempts of the clinician visits being documented. There is no documented evidence that the patient received the services that are written in the individualized plan of care. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 7. Patient #8 has a Start of Care date of 11/19/2024 with the following diagnoses “ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction, Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/19/2024 to 01/17/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/19/2024 to 01/17/2025 documents: “SN (skilled nurse) 1WK2 (once a week for two weeks), 1 every 2WK6 (once every 2 weeks for 6 weeks); HHA (home health aide) 1WK1 (once a week for one week), 3WK7 (three times a week for seven weeks).” The Medical Order – Resumption of Care dated 01/08/2025 documents: “HHA (home health aide) effective 01/05/2025 1WK1 (once a week for one week).” The Duty Sheets lacks documented evidence of aide services being provided on 11/19/2024 to 11/23/2024, missed one visit; 11/24/2024 to 11/30/2024, missed three visits; and 01/05/2025 to 01/11/2025, missed one visit. On 01/24/2025 at 12:00PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 1. Patient #4 has a Start of Care date of 11/29/2024 with the following diagnoses “Pain due to Internal Orthopedic Prosthesis, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Hyperlipidemia” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/29/2024 to 01/27/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/29/2024 to 01/27/2025 documents: “PT (physical therapy) effective 12/01/2024 2WK7 (twice a week for seven weeks).” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Physical therapy being provided between 01/05/2025 to 01/11/2025, missed two visits. There is no documented evidence that the patient received the services that are written in the individualized plan of care. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #5 has a Start of Care date of 12/20/2024 with the following diagnoses “Mitral Valve Insufficiency, Chronic Atrial Fibrillation” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/20/2024 to 02/17/2024. The Client Coordination Note Report documents: 12/20/2024 “We have received your case for PT (physical therapy) and are currently working on placement. When a therapist has been assigned to your case you should receive a call directly from them to schedule the evaluation.” 12/23/2024 “PT (physical therapy) for eval (evaluation) and assessment.” 12/30/2024 “Date of missed visit: 12/27; Discipline: Physical Therapy; Treatment not provided for the following reason: Schedule change.” There is no documented evidence of the order for the physical therapy missed visit on 12/27/2024. The Medical Order documents: 12/26/2024 “hha (home health aide) effective 12/22/2024 2WK1 (twice a week for one week).” 01/10/2025 “Hha (home health aide) effective 01/12/2025 5WK3, 4WK1 (five times a week for three weeks, four times a week for one week).” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of aide services being provided from 12/22/2024 to 12/28/2024, missed two visits and 01/12/2025 to 01/18/2025, missed five visits. There is no documented evidence that the patient received the services that are written in the individualized plan of care. On 01/24/2025 at 12:00PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 3. Patient #6 has a Start of Care date of 12/02/2024 with the following diagnoses “Ventricular Flutter, Unspecified Atrial Fibrillation” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/02/2024 to 01/30/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/02/2024 to 01/30/2025 documents: “OT (occupational therapy) effective 12/22/2024 1WK1 (once a week for one week); hha (home health aide) effective 12/08/2024 4WK1, 5WK1, 1WK1, 5WK4 (four times a week for one week, five times a week for one week, once a week for one week, five times a week for four weeks).” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of occupation therapy being provided week 12/22/2024 to 12/28/2024, missed one visit; 12/29/2024 to 01/04/2025, missed one visit; and aide services week 12/15/2024 to 12/21/2024, missed one visit; 01/05/2025 to 01/11/2025, missed four visits; and 1/12/2025 to 01/18/2025, missed five visits. There is no documented evidence that the patient received the services that are written in the individualized plan of care. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 4. Patient #7 has a Start of Care date of 11/11/2024 with the following diagnoses “Parkinson’s Disorder, Essential Hypertension” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/11/2024 to 01/09/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/11/2024 to 01/09/2025 documents: “SN (skilled nurse) 1WK4 (once a week for four weeks); PT (physical therapy) 2WK8, 1WK1 (twice a week for eight weeks, once a week for one week).” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of skilled nurse services being provided week 11/17/2024 to 11/23/2024, missed one visit; 11/24/2024 to 11/30/2024; missed one visit; 12/01/2024 to 12/07/2024; missed one visit; and physical therapy week 12/15/2024 to 12/21/2024, missed two visits; 12/22/2024 to 12/28/2024, missed one visit; 12/29/2024 to 01/04/2025, missed one visit; and 01/05/2025 to 01/09/2025, missed one visit. There is no documented evidence that the patient received the services that are written in the individualized plan of care. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0572. Standard-level. From a complaint.

  • Rn Performs Assessment

    The inspectors’ words, 563 words

    “RN performs assessment CFR(s): 484.55(a)(1) A registered nurse must conduct an initial assessment visit to determine the immediate care and support needs of the patient; and, for Medicare patients, to determine eligibility for the Medicare home health benefit, including homebound status. The initial assessment visit must be held either within 48 hours of referral, or within 48 hours of the patient’s return home, or on the physician or allowed practitioner - ordered start of care date. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interviews, the governing authority failed to ensure an initial assessment was conducted within 48 hours of referral, or within 48 hours of the patient’s return home. This was evident for two (2) of eight (8) clinical records reviewed (Patients #3 and #6). Failure to ensure an initial assessment is held either within 48 hours of referral, or within 48 hours of the patient’s return home has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: 1. Patient #3 has a Start of Care date of 12/27/2024 with the following diagnoses “Unspecified Open Wound Left Foot, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/27/2024 to 02/24/2025. The Client Coordination Note Report documents: 12/20/2024 “SOC (start of care) date 12/23.” 12/23/2024 “I have been trying to reach this patient since 7am, but the phone numbers on file were completely different. Finally the patient answered and said that he was expecting a nurse tomorrow.” 12/24/2024 “Called patient several times in the morning. Left a vm (voice mail) for a call back.” “Patient called me back at 7:21PM asking why I didn’t go, told him that we have tried several times and he didn’t respond. He will wait for a nurse to go over tomorrow.” 12/25/2024 “no answer left VML (voicemail).” The Policy and Procedure for Delayed in Services Process documents: “If the delayed service is critical to the patient’s health (e.g., wound care, medication administration, injections), the situation should be escalated immediately to ensure no further impact on the patient’s condition.” “The Clinical Manger should be notified for further guidance, particularly if the delay involves high-priority care.” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the initial assessment visit within 48 hours of referral. There is no documented evidence of the follow up and the escalation to the clinical managers. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and stated, “Our policy is if the patient did not answer the phone, we have to go in the home”, no further explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #6 has a Start of Care date of 12/02/2024 with the following diagnoses “Ventricular Flutter, Unspecified Atrial Fibrillation” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/02/2024 to 01/30/2025. The Referral Information documents: Discharge Date 11/28/2024. The Client Coordination Note Report documents: 11/29/2024 “SOC (start of care) date change; Reason: confirmed with patient; New Date: 12/2.” There is no documented evidence of the reason for the change in the start of care and the notification to the physician. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the initial assessment visit within 48 hours of referral. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and confirmed findings.”

    Rule G0514. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Health, Psychosocial, Functional, Cognition

    The inspectors’ words, 479 words

    “Health, psychosocial, functional, cognition CFR(s): 484.55(c)(1) Standard: Content of the comprehensive assessment. The comprehensive assessment must accurately reflect the patient’s status, and must include, at a minimum, the following information: (1) The patient’s current health, psychosocial, functional, and cognitive status; This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interviews, the governing authority failed to ensure an accurate reflection of the patient’s current status. This was evident for two (2) of eight (8) clinical records reviewed (Patients #3 and #4). Failure to ensure an accurate reflection of the patient’s current status has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: 1. Patient #3 has a Start of Care date of 12/27/2024 with the following diagnoses “Unspecified Open wound Left Foot, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/27/2024 to 02/24/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/27/2024 to 02/24/2025 documents: “Wound care cleanse with Vashe Solution, apply Aquacel AG dressing, cover with gauze, Kling, secure with paper tape.” “Skilled nurse to perform/teach wound care, Cleanse with Vashe Solution, apply Aquacel AG Dressing, cover with gauze, Kling, secure with paper tape, using clean/aseptic technique. Change dressing every day and PRN.” The Visit Note Report documents: 12/27/2024 “#1 Lat Lt Prox (Lateral Left Proximal) Great Toe; Indicate Type: Closed Surg (surgical); Epithelialization: 50-25%; Epithelialization: 50-<75%; Necrotic Tissue Type: Sft Bl ( soft blister); Necrotic Tissue Amount: None.” The comprehensive assessment lacks documented evidence of an accurate description of the wound: #1 with yellow necrosis and no amount; #2 missing location of wound – which part of dorsum and with soft blister but with granulation and epithelialization. There is no documented evidence of an accurate reflection of the patient’s current status. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #4 has a Start of Care date of 11/29/2024 with the following diagnoses “Pain due to Internal Orthopedic Prosthesis, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Hyperlipidemia” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/29/2024 to 01/27/2025. The Visit Note Report documents Rt (right) – Prox (proximal) Thigh on: 11/29/2024 “Indicate Type: Closed Surg (surgical); Epithelialization: 75-<100%.” 12/11/2024 “Indicate Type: Susp (suspected) DTI (deep tissue injury); Epithelialization: 100%; Necrotic Tissue Type and Amount: None.” The comprehensive assessment lacks documented evidence of an accurate description of the wound: suspected deep tissue injury but the description is closed (100% epithelialization) and no signs of deep tissue injury. There is no documented evidence of an accurate reflection of the patient’s current status. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0528. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Within 48 Hours Of The Patient’S Return

    The inspectors’ words, 338 words

    “Within 48 hours of the patient’s return CFR(s): 484.55(d)(2) Within 48 hours of the patient’s return to the home from a hospital admission of 24 hours or more for any reason other than diagnostic tests, or on physician or allowed practitioner - ordered resumption date; This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interviews, the governing authority failed to ensure an update of the comprehensive assessment within 48 hours of the patient’s return to the home from a hospital admission. This was evident for one (1) of eight (8) clinical records reviewed (Patient #8). Failure to ensure an update of the comprehensive assessment within 48 hours of the patient’s return to the home from a hospital admission has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: 1. Patient #8 has a Start of Care date of 11/19/2024 with the following diagnoses “ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction, Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/19/2024 to 01/17/2025. The Printable Discharge Form dated 12/23/2024 documents: “Referral, Date First Sent: 12/23/2024, Referral Type: Home Health Care Services; Admission Date: 12/18/2024.” Th Client Coordination Note Report documents: 01/02/2025 “Date of missed visit: 1/2/25; Discipline: SN (skilled nurse); Treatment not provided for the following reason: patient has a medical appointment today.” 01/04/2025 “Date of missed visit: 1/4/25; Discipline: SN (skilled nurse); Treatment not provided for the following reason: Called main number and (name) contact, but no answer. Voicemail left, but no call back received.” 01/07/2025 “Date of missed visit: 1/6/25; Discipline: SN (skilled nurse); Treatment not provided for the following reason: schedule change.” 01/09/2025 “Hospitalized (12/18/24 – 12/31/24) for sepsis”. The Medical Order dated 1/8/2025 documents: “Resumption of Care.” There is no documented evidence of the resumption OASIS was completed within 48 hours of the patient’s return to the home. On 01/24/2025 at 12:00PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0548. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • At Discharge

    The inspectors’ words, 668 words

    “At discharge CFR(s): 484.55(d)(3) At discharge. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interviews, the governing authority failed to ensure an update of the comprehensive assessment at discharge. This was evident for four (4) of eight (8) clinical records reviewed (Patients #1, #2, #7 and #8). Failure to ensure an update of the comprehensive assessment at discharge has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: 2. Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 09/30/2024 with the following diagnoses “Atrial Fibrillation, Sepsis due to Enterococcus” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 09/30/2024 to 11/28/2024. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 09/30/2024 to 11/28/2024 documents: “PT (physical therapy) effective 10/06/2024 1WK2 (once a week for 2 weeks), 2WK4 (twice a week for 4 weeks), 1WK2 (once a week for 2 weeks.” The clinical record documents physical therapy was provided on 11/21/2024 and a missed visit on 11/28/2024, no answer at the door. There is no documented evidence of an update of the comprehensive assessment at discharge (no discharge OASIS) for Certification Period ending on 11/28/2024. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 3. Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 11/12/2024 with the following diagnoses “Spondylosis with Radiculopathy Lumbar Region, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/16/2024 to 01/14/2025. The Visit Note Report – PT (physical therapy Discharge Data Collection Only – no visit made dated 11/25/2024 documents: “This Assessment is currently being completed for the following reason: Discharge from agency; Date completed with physical therapy signature 01/05/2025.” The Medical Order dated 12/30/2024 documents: “Patient unable to be contacted by clinicians after multiple attempts. Case DC (discharge) from Americare Certified Special Services a/o (as of) last visit 11/25/24.” The clinical record documents visit with skilled nurse on 11/16/2024 and 11/21/2024, occupational therapy on 11/22/2024, and physical therapy on 11/25/2024. There is no documented evidence that the discharge OASIS was completed within two days. There is no documented evidence of an update of the comprehensive assessment at discharge in a timely manner On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 4. Patient #8 has a Start of Care date of 11/19/2024 with the following diagnoses “ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction, Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/19/2024 to 01/17/2025. The Medical Order dated 12/19/2024 documents: “Patient admitted at NYP (New York Presbyterian) lower Manhattan Hospital on12/18/24.” There is no documented evidence of the transfer OASIS being completed within 2 days after the knowledge of patient’s hospitalization on 12/19/2024. There is no documented evidence of an update of the comprehensive assessment at discharge to hospital – transfer to an inpatient facility (OASIS assessment timeframe: within 2 calendar days of transfer date to inpatient facility). On 01/24/2025 at 12:00PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 1. Patient #7 has a Start of Care date of 11/11/2024 with the following diagnoses “Parkinson’s Disorder, Essential Hypertension” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/11/2024 to 01/09/2025. The clinical record documents occupational therapy was provided on 12/16/2024, and patient decline services with physical therapy on 12/28/2024 and 12/31/2024, no other services provided from 12/17/2024 to the present. There is no documented evidence of an update of the comprehensive assessment at discharge (no discharge OASIS) for Certification Period ending on 01/09/2025. On 01/24/2025 at 12:00PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0550. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Plan Of Care Must Include The Following

    The inspectors’ words, 720 words

    “Plan of care must include the following CFR(s): 484.60(a)(2)(i-xvi) The individualized plan of care must include the following: (i) All pertinent diagnoses; (ii) The patient’s mental, psychosocial, and cognitive status; (iii) The types of services, supplies, and equipment required; (iv) The frequency and duration of visits to be made; (v) Prognosis; (vi) Rehabilitation potential; (vii) Functional limitations; (viii) Activities permitted; (ix) Nutritional requirements; (x) All medications and treatments; (xi) Safety measures to protect against injury; (xii) A description of the patient’s risk for emergency department visits and hospital re-admission, and all necessary interventions to address the underlying risk factors. (xiii) Patient and caregiver education and training to facilitate timely discharge; (xiv) Patient-specific interventions and education; measurable outcomes and goals identified by the HHA and the patient; (xv) Information related to any advanced directives; and (xvi) Any additional items the HHA or physician or allowed practitioner may choose to include. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interviews, the governing authority failed to ensure that the individualized plan of care must include all medications and treatments. This was evident for two (2) of eight (8) clinical records reviewed (Patients #3 and #4). Failure to ensure that the individualized plan of care includes all medications and treatments has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: 1. Patient #3 has a Start of Care date of 12/27/2024 with the following diagnoses “Unspecified Open Wound Left Foot, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/27/2024 to 02/24/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/27/2024 to 02/24/2025 documents: “SN (skilled nurse) 1WK1, 2WK1, 1WK1, 3WK6, 1WK1 (once a week for one week, twice a week for one week, once a week for one week, three times a week for six weeks, once a week for one week).” “Wound care cleanse with Vashe Solution, apply Aquacel AG dressing, cover with gauze, Kling, secure with paper tape.” “Skilled nurse to perform/teach wound care, Cleanse with Vashe Solution, apply Aquacel AG Dressing, cover with gauze, Kling, secure with paper tape, using clean/aseptic technique. Change dressing every day and PRN (as needed).” The Visit Note Report dated 12/27/2024 documents: “#1 Lat Lt Prox (Lateral Left Proximal) Great Toe; Indicate Type: Closed Surg (surgical)” “#2 Med (medial) Dorsum, Mid. Lt (middle left)”. The plan of care lacks documented evidence of the site (for the first order) and the frequency for the wound treatment. There is no documented evidence of a complete individualized plan of care. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #4 has a Start of Care date of 11/29/2024 with the following diagnoses “Pain due to Internal Orthopedic Prosthesis, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Hyperlipidemia” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/29/2024 to 01/27/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/29/2024 to 01/27/2025 documents: “Skilled Nurse to observe and assess integumentary status to identify changes and intervene to minimize complications. Skilled Nurse to provide skilled teaching related to altered skin integrity including pathophysiology, nutrition, medication regimen. Skilled nurse to report significant changes in status to physician for early intervention.” The Visit Note Report documents: 11/29/2024 “On the Right Leg, the outer side of the thigh, there is a surgical incision of about 20 intimators. The incision has no visible symptoms of infection. No any other wound observed. There is no order from the doctor to treat the wound. According to patients daughter they treated with warm water and soap.” 12/11/2024, 12/20/2024 “Wound care provided – awaiting wound care orders from MD (medical doctor).” The plan of care lacks documented evidence of the treatment for the wound and monitoring for signs and symptoms of infection. There is no documented evidence that the nurse clarified with the physician the wound care treatment of warm water and soap used by the daughter. There is no documented evidence of a complete individualized plan of care. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0574. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Discharge Plans Communication

    The inspectors’ words, 731 words

    “Discharge plans communication CFR(s): 484.60(c)(3)(ii) (ii) Any revisions related to plans for the patient’s discharge must be communicated to the patient, representative, caregiver, all physicians or allowed practitioner’s issuing orders for the HHA plan of care, and the patient’s primary care practitioner or other health care professional who will be responsible for providing care and services to the patient after discharge from the HHA (if any). This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interviews, the governing authority failed to ensure any revision for the patient’s discharges must be communicated to the patient, caregivers, and physicians. This was evident for three (3) of eight (8) clinical records reviewed (Patients #1, #2, and #7). Failure to ensure that any revision for the patient’s discharges must be communicated to the patient, caregivers, and physicians has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: 3. Patient #7 has a Start of Care date of 11/11/2024 with the following diagnoses “Parkinson’s Disorder, Essential Hypertension” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/11/2024 to 01/09/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/11/2024 to 01/09/2025 documents: “SN (skilled nurse) 1WK4 (once a week for four weeks) PT (physical therapy) 2WK8, 1WK1 (twice a week for eight weeks, once a week for one week).” The Client Coordination Note Report documents: 12/29/2024 “Date of Missed Visit: 12/28/24, Discipline: PT (Physical therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: Pt (patient) decline.” 01/02/2025 “Date of Missed Visit: 12/31/24, Discipline: PT (Physical therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: Pt (patient) decline.” The clinical record documents occupational therapy was provided on 12/16/2024, and patient decline services with physical therapy on 12/28/2024 and 12/31/2024, no other services provided from 12/17/2024 to the present. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of physical therapy services being provided week 12/15/2024 to 12/21/2024, missed two visits; 12/22/2024 to 12/28/2024, missed one visit; 12/29/2024 to 01/04/2025, missed one visit; and 01/05/2025 to 01/09/2025, missed one visit. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the communication with the patient, family, and the physician related to the missed visits and the discharge. On 01/24/2025 at 12:00PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 1. Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 09/30/2024 with the following diagnoses “Atrial Fibrillation, Sepsis due to Enterococcus” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 09/30/2024 to 11/28/2024. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 09/30/2024 to 11/28/2024 documents: “PT (physical therapy) effective 10/06/2024 1WK2 (once a week for two weeks), 2WK4 (twice a week for four weeks), 1WK2 (once a week for two weeks).” The clinical record documents physical therapy being provided on 11/21/2024 and a missed visit on 11/28/2024, no answer at the door. There is no documented evidence of an update of the comprehensive assessment at discharge for Certification Period ending on 11/28/2024. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the communication with the patient, family, and the physician related to the discharge. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 11/12/2024 with the following diagnoses “Spondylosis with Radiculopathy Lumbar Region, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/16/2024 to 01/14/2025. The Visit Note Report – PT (physical therapy) Discharge Data Collection Only – no visit made dated 11/25/2024 documents: “This Assessment is currently being completed for the following reason: Discharge from agency; Date completed with physical therapy signature 01/05/2025.” The Medical Order dated 12/30/2024 documents: “Patient unable to be contacted by clinicians after multiple attempts. Case DC (discharge) from (Americare Certified Special Services) a/o (as of) last visit 11/25/24.” There is no documented evidence of an update of the comprehensive assessment at discharge in a timely manner. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the communication with the patient and family related to the discharged. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0598. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Coordinate Care Delivery

    The inspectors’ words, 904 words

    “Coordinate care delivery CFR(s): 484.60(d)(4) Coordinate care delivery to meet the patient’s needs, and involve the patient, representative (if any), and caregiver(s), as appropriate, in the coordination of care activities. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interviews, the governing authority failed to coordinate care delivery with the patient and caregivers to meet the patient’s needs. This was evident for three (3) of eight (8) clinical records reviewed (Patients #4, #5, and #6). Failure to coordinate care delivery with the patient and caregivers to meet the patient’s needs has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: 1. Patient #4 has a Start of Care date of 11/29/2024 with the following diagnoses “Pain due to Internal Orthopedic Prosthesis, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Hyperlipidemia” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/29/2024 to 01/27/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/29/2024 to 01/27/2025 documents: “PT (physical therapy) effective 12/01/2024 2WK7 (twice a week for seven weeks).” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of physical therapy being provided between 01/05/2025 to 01/11/2025, missed two visits. There is no documented evidence of the coordination with the patient or family of the missed visits. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #5 has a Start of Care date of 12/20/2024 with the following diagnoses “Mitral Valve Insufficiency, Chronic Atrial Fibrillation” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/20/2024 to 02/17/2024. The Client Coordination Note Report documents: 12/20/2024 “We have received your case for PT (physical therapy) and are currently working on placement. When a therapist has been assigned to your case you should receive a call directly from them to schedule the evaluation.” 12/23/2024 “PT (physical therapy) for eval (evaluation) and assessment.” 12/30/2024 “Date of missed visit: 12/27; Discipline: Physical Therapy; Treatment not provided for the following reason: Schedule change.” There is no documented evidence of the coordination with the patient or family of the delay in services from 12/21/2024 to 01/08/2025. The Admission Client Service Agreement documents: “At this point in time your physician has approved an initial plan of care that includes the following services (enter frequency, interval, and duration for each skill) Skilled nursing, physical therapy, home health aide.” “Home health aide - hha: 5days x 4 hours”. The Medical Order dated documents: 12/26/2024 “hha (home health aide) effective 12/22/2024 2WK1 (twice a week for one week).” 01/10/2025 “Hha (home health aide) effective 01/12/2025 5WK3, 4WK1 (five times a week for three weeks, four times a week for one week).” The Home Health Aide Plan of Care was completed on 12/20/2024. The Client Coordination Note Report dated 12/26/2024 documents: “Spoke to patient informed him we are waiting for hha (home health aide) approval from his health insurance. Once auth (authorization) is approved we will informed him.” There is no documented evidence of the coordination and notification to the family regarding aide services after the call on 12/26/2024 to 01/06/2025 and for the missed visits between 01/12/2025 to 01/18/2025. On 01/24/2025 at 12:00PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 3. Patient #6 has a Start of Care date of 12/02/2024 with the following diagnoses “Ventricular Flutter, Unspecified Atrial Fibrillation” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/02/2024 to 01/30/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/02/2024 to 01/30/2025 documents: “PT (physical therapy) effective 12/08/2024 1WK1, 2WK1, 1WK1, 2WK1, 1WK1 (once a week for one week, twice a week for one week, once a week for one week, twice a week for one week, once a week for one week).” The Client Coordination Note Report documents: 12/07/2024 “Called and left voicemail to notify the patient that their PT (physical therapy) case has been received and therapist will be reaching out to schedule the evaluation visit”. “Patient was not seen for PT (physical therapy) eval (evaluation) today. Patient will be rescheduled on Tuesday Dec (December) 10. MD (medical doctor) notified.” 12/10/2024 “Called and left voicemail to notify the patient that their PT (physical therapy) case has been received and therapist will be reaching out to schedule the evaluation visit”. There is no documented evidence of the notification or coordination with the patient/family about rescheduling of the evaluation on 12/10/2024 and the reason of the change. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/02/2024 to 01/30/2025 documents: “hha (home health aide) effective 12/08/2024 4WK1, 5WK1, 1WK1, 5WK4 (four times a week for one week, five times a week for one week, once a week for one week, five times a week for four weeks).” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the aide services being provided on week 12/15/2024 to 12/21/2024 – missed one visit, 01/05/2025 to 01/11/2025 – missed four visits; and 1/12/2025 to 01/18/2025 – missed five visits. There is no documented evidence of the coordination and notification with the patient or family of the missed visits. On 01/24/2025 at 12:00PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0608. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Patients Receive Education And Training

    The inspectors’ words, 340 words

    “Patients receive education and training CFR(s): 484.60(d)(5) Ensure that each patient, and his or her caregiver(s) where applicable, receive ongoing education and training provided by the HHA, as appropriate, regarding the care and services identified in the plan of care. The HHA must provide training, as necessary, to ensure a timely discharge. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interviews, the governing authority failed to ensure that each patient receive ongoing education and training regarding wound care. This was evident for one (1) of eight (8) clinical records reviewed (Patient #3). Failure to ensure that each patient receive ongoing education and training regarding the care has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: 1. Patient #3 has a Start of Care date of 12/27/2024 with the following diagnoses “Unspecified Open wound Left Foot, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/27/2024 to 02/24/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/27/2024 to 02/24/2025 documents: “SN (skilled nurse) 1WK1, 2WK1, 1WK1, 3WK6, 1WK1 (once a week for one week, twice a week for one week, once a week for one week, three times a week for six weeks, once a week for one week).” The Visit Note Report dated 12/27/2024 documents: “#1 Lat Lt Prox (Lateral Left Proximal) Great Toe; Indicate Type: Closed Surg (surgical)” “#2 Med (medial) Dorsum, Mid. Lt (middle left)”. “Patient lives alone” “Document caregiver’s willingness and/or ability to provide the care the patient needs: No caregiver available” “He had difficult caring for self at home, due to change/decline in functional/strength status need assistance in home to perform ADLS/IADLS (activity of daily living / instrumental activity of daily living).” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the patient receiving education and training for wound care treatment. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0610. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Coordinate Patient Care

    The inspectors’ words, 996 words

    “Coordinate patient care CFR(s): 484.105(c)(2) Coordinating patient care, This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interviews, the governing authority failed to ensure of the coordination of patient care with the clinical manager. This was evident for three (3) of eight (8) clinical records reviewed (Patients #1, #2, and #6). Failure to coordinate patient care with the clinical manager has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: 3. Patient #6 has a Start of Care date of 12/02/2024 with the following diagnoses “Ventricular Flutter, Unspecified Atrial Fibrillation” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/02/2024 to 01/30/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/02/2024 to 01/30/2025 documents: “PT (physical therapy) effective 12/08/2024 1WK1, 2WK1, 1WK1, 2WK1, 1WK1 (once a week for one week, twice a week for one week, once a week for one week, twice a week for one week, once a week for one week). OT (occupational therapy) effective 12/22/2024 1WK1 (once a week for one week).” The Medical Order documents: 01/02/2025 “OT (occupational therapy) effective 12/29/2024 1WK1 (once a week for one week).” 01/06/2025 “OT (occupational therapy) effective 01/05/2025 1WK1 (once a week for one week).” 01/14/2025 “OT (occupational therapy) effective 01/12/2025 1WK1 (once a week for one week).” 01/17/2025 “OT (occupational therapy) effective 01/12/2025 1WK1, 2WK1, 1WK1 (once a week for one week, twice a week for one week, once a week for one week).” The Client Coordination Note Report documents: 12/19/2024 (Occupational therapy) “PT (patient) was called, but (no) one answered. A message was left.” 12/27/2024 “Date of Missed Visit: Dec (December) 27 2024; Discipline: PT (physical therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: no answer on phone.” 12/31/2024 “Date of Missed Visit: Dec (December) 31 2024; Discipline: PT (physical therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: no answer on phone.” 01/02/2025 “Date of Missed Visit: Jan (January) 2 2025; Discipline: PT (physical therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: no answer on phone.” 01/08/2025 “Date of Missed Visit: Jan (January) 8 2025; Discipline: PT (physical therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: no answer on phone.” 01/09/2025 (Occupational therapy) “Phone call was made today on 01/09/2025, but no one answered.” 01/16/2025 (Occupational therapy) “Patient was called on 01/15/2025, but no one answered.” 01/07/2025 (Occupational therapy) “called on 01/16/2025, and again on 01/17/2025, but no one answered the phone.” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the coordination of patient care with the Clinical Manager regarding multiple missed visits to identify patient’s needs and safety. On 01/24/2025 at 12:00PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 1. Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 09/30/2024 with the following diagnoses “Atrial Fibrillation, Sepsis due to Enterococcus” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 09/30/2024 to 11/28/2024. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 09/30/2024 to 11/28/2024 documents: “PT (physical therapy) effective 10/06/2024 1WK2 (once for two weeks), 2WK4 (twice for four weeks), 1WK2 (once for two weeks)”. The Client Coordination Note Report documents: 10/07/2024 “Date of Missed Visit: 10-05-24; Discipline: PT (physical therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: Patient didn’t open the door, went to his house but no response. Requesting evaluation to be moved from 10-05-24 to 10-08-24.” 10/13/2024 “Date of Missed Visit: 10.11.24; Discipline: SN (skilled nurse); Treatment not provided for the following reasons: unable to reach, no one returns voice mail.” 10/20/2024 “Date of Missed Visit: 10.16.24; Discipline: SN (skilled nurse); Treatment not provided for the following reasons: unable to reach.” 10/21/2024 “Date of Missed Visit: 10-15-24; Discipline: PT (physical therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: Patient is not home.” 10/27/2024 “Date of Missed Visit: 10-17-24; Discipline: PT (physical therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: Patient is not available.” 11/09/2024 “Date of Missed Visit: 11.8.24; Discipline: SN (skilled nurse); Treatment not provided for the following reasons: unable to reach.” 11/11/2024 “Date of Missed Visit: 10-24-24; Discipline: PT (physical therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: Patient is not available.” 12/02/2024 “Date of Missed Visit: 11-07-24; Discipline: PT (physical therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: Patient is sick.” 12/02/2024 “Date of Missed Visit: 11-05-24; Discipline: PT (physical therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: No answer at door.” 12/10/2024 “Date of Missed Visit: 11-14-24; Discipline: PT (physical therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: No answer at door.” 12/10/2024 “Date of Missed Visit: 11-28-24; Discipline: PT (physical therapy); Treatment not provided for the following reason: No answer at door.” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the coordination with the Clinical Manager regarding multiple missed visits to identify patient’s needs and safety. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 11/12/2024 with the following diagnoses “Spondylosis with Radiculopathy Lumbar Region, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/16/2024 to 01/14/2025. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 11/16/2024 to 01/14/2025 documents: “1WK2 (once a week for two weeks), 1 every 2WK4 (once every two weeks for four weeks).” The Medical Order dated 12/30/2024 documents: “Patient unable to be contacted by clinicians after multiple attempts. Case DC (discharge) from Americare Certified Special Services a/o (as of) last visit 11/25/24.” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the coordination of patient care with the Clinical Manager regarding multiple attempts visits to identify patient’s needs and safety. On 01/23/2025 at 3:30PM, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0962. Element-level. From a complaint.

Nov 21, 2024: complaint inspection5 deficiencies
  • Plan Of Care

    The inspectors’ words, 485 words

    “Plan of care CFR(s): 484.60(a)(1) Each patient must receive the home health services that are written in an individualized plan of care that identifies patient-specific measurable outcomes and goals, and which is established, periodically reviewed, and signed by a doctor of medicine, osteopathy, or podiatry acting within the scope of his or her state license, certification, or registration. If a physician or allowed practitioner refers a patient under a plan of care that cannot be completed until after an evaluation visit, the physician or allowed practitioner is consulted to approve additions or modifications to the original plan. This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interview, the agency failed to ensure that the patient received the care that is written in the individualized Plan of Care. This was evident for one (1) of three (3) clinical records reviewed (Patient (#1). Failure to ensure that patients receive the care that is written in the individualized Plan of Care has the potential for negative patient outcome. The findings are: Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 9/21/2024 with diagnoses: Encounter for Orthopedic after care following surgical Amputation, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Foot Ulcer, Non-Prs Chronic Ulcer Oth Prt Left Foot with Oth Severity (Non-Pressure Chronic Other part left foot with other severity) Acquired Absence of Left Foot, Gas Gangrene, Muscle Weakness (Generalized) documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 9/21/24 – 11/19/24. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care documents: Frequency/Duration of Visits: SN: 1WK 1, 4WK 1, 3WK7, 1Wk1 SN to perform/ teach wound care to left foot transmetarsal amputation. Remove vac dressing, ensure that the adaptive remains sutured to the wound bed. Cut black granufoam to the size of the wound, cover with provided Tegaderm. Cut a dime size hole to the Tegaderm and attach the suction apparatus , ensure no leaks present set wound vacuum to 125mmhg continuously, medium intensity , dressing left foot with drain sponge , abdominal pad, kerlix, and ace bandage ( ensure the tubing is not rubbing against the patient’s skin ) Skilled Nurse to perform/ teach wound care SN to perform wound care three times a week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The Visit Note Reports documents: On 9/29/24 (Sunday) a Skilled nurse visit was conducted. On 10/3 (Thursday) the skilled nurse documents wound care not provided refused care, wound care provided by the physician. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the patient receiving three wound care treatment visits for the week 9/29/24 – 10/5/24. (one treatment not provided). The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the patient receiving wound care service on Monday, Wednesday and Friday as written in the patient’s individualized plan of care. On 11/13/24 at 2:45 PM the Director of Patient Services and the Director Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0572. Standard-level. From a complaint.

  • Only As Ordered By A Physician

    The inspectors’ words, 398 words

    “Only as ordered by a physician CFR(s): 484.60(b)(1) Drugs, services, and treatments are administered only as ordered by a physician or allowed practitioner. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interview, the agency failed to ensure that treatments are administered as ordered by the physician. This was evident for one (1) of three (3) clinical records reviewed. (Patient #1). Failure to ensure all treatments are administered only as ordered by the physician has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The findings are: Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 9/21/2024 with diagnoses: Encounter for Orthopedic After care following surgical Amputation , Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Foot Ulcer, Non-Prs Chronic Ulcer Oth Prt Left Foot with Oth Severity ( Non-Pressure Chronic Other part left Foot With Other Severity) Acquired Absence of Left Foot, Gas Gangrene, Muscle Weakness (Generalized) documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 9/21/24 – 11/19/24. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care documents: Frequency/Duration of Visits: SN: 1WK 1, 4WK 1, 3WK7, 1Wk1 SN to perform/ teach wound care to left foot transmetarsal amputation. Remove vac dressing, ensure that the adaptive remains sutured to the wound bed. Cut black granufoam to the size of the wound, cover with provided Tegaderm. Cut a dime size hole to the Tegaderm and attach the suction apparatus , ensure no leaks present set wound vacuum to 125mmhg continuously, medium intensity , dressing left foot with drain sponge , abdominal pad, kerlix, and ace bandage ( ensure the tubing is not rubbing against the patient’s skin ) Skilled Nurse to perform/ teach wound care SN to perform wound care three times a week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Visit Note Reports documents: 09/25/2024: Narrative: Cleansed with NSS (Normal Saline Solution), patted dry, applied wound vac at 125mmhg. 09/27/2024: Wound Care Provided: Cleansed with NSS (Normal Saline Solution), patted dry, applied wound vac at 125mmhg. 09/29/2024: wound care provided. Cleansed with NSS (Normal Saline Solution), patted dry, applied wound vac at 125mmhg. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Registered Nurse providing wound care treatments only as ordered by the physician for the dates 9/25/, 9/27, and 9/29/24. On 11/13/24 at 2:45 PM the Director of Patient Services and the Director Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0580. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Promptly Alert Relevant Physician Of Changes

    The inspectors’ words, 409 words

    “Promptly alert relevant physician of changes CFR(s): 484.60(c)(1) The HHA must promptly alert the relevant physician(s) or allowed practitioner(s) to any changes in the patient’s condition or needs that suggest that outcomes are not being achieved and/or that the plan of care should be altered. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interview the agency failed to promptly alert the physician of changes in the patient’s wound care treatment that would potentially affect the outcome of the patient’s treatment goals. This was evident for one (1) of three (3) clinical records reviewed. (Patient #1). Failure to ensure the physician is promptly notified of changes that would affect the patient’s treatment regime has the potential for negative patient outcome. The findings are: Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 9/21/2024 with diagnoses: Encounter for Orthopedic After care following surgical Amputation , Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Foot Ulcer, Non-Prs Chronic Ulcer Oth Prt Left Foot with Oth Severity ( Non-Pressure Chronic Other part left Foot With Other Severity) Acquired Absence of Left Foot, Gas Gangrene, Muscle Weakness (Generalized) documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 9/21/24 – 11/19/24. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 9/21/24 – 11/19/24 documents SN to perform/ teach wound care to left foot transmetarsal amputation: Remove vac dressing, ensure that the adaptive remains sutured to the wound bed. Cut black granufoam to the size of the wound, cover with provided Tegaderm. Cut a dime size hole to the Tegaderm and attach the suction apparatus, ensure no leaks present set wound vacuum to 125mmhg continuously, medium intensity, dressing left foot with drain sponge , abdominal pad, kerlix, and ace bandage ( ensure the tubing is not rubbing against the patient’s skin. The Visit Note Report documents: 09/27/2024: Wound Care Provided. Narrative: Patient requires drape and vac granufoam, and cannister for wound vac, the system does not show the supplies to request them. Please assist. 09/29/2024: wound care provided. Patient requires the supplies for wound vac. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Registered Nurse promptly alerting the physician of the absence of the patient’s wound care treatment supplies and that the plan of care may need to be altered. On 11/13/24 at 2:45 PM the Director of Patient Services and the Director Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0590. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Integrate All Services

    The inspectors’ words, 359 words

    “Integrate all services CFR(s): 484.60(d)(3) Integrate services, whether services are provided directly or under arrangement, to assure the identification of patient needs and factors that could affect patient safety and treatment effectiveness and the coordination of care provided by all disciplines. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interview the agency failed to appropriately identify the needs of the patient, factors that could affect the effectiveness of the patient wound care treatment and coordinate the care being provided. This was evident for one (1) of three (3) clinical records reviewed. (Patient #1). Failure to identify the needs of the patient, factor that will affect the effectiveness of treatment and coordinate the care being provided has the potential for negative patient outcome. The findings are: Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 9/21/2024 with diagnoses: Encounter for Orthopedic After care following surgical Amputation , Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Foot Ulcer, Non-Prs Chronic Ulcer Oth Prt Left Foot with Oth Severity ( Non-Pressure Chronic Other part left Foot With Other Severity) Acquired Absence of Left Foot, Gas Gangrene, Muscle Weakness (Generalized) documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 9/21/24 – 11/19/24. The Visit Note Report documents: 09/27/2024: Wound Care Provided: Cleansed with NSS (Normal Saline Solution), patted dry, applied wound vac at 125mmhg patient tolerated well. Narrative: Patient requires drape and vac granufoam, and cannister for wound vac, the system does not show the supplies to request them. Please assist. 09/29/2024: wound care provided. Cleansed with NSS (Normal Saline Solution), patted dry, applied wound vac at 125mmhg patient tolerated well. Patient requires the supplies for wound vac. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of coordination between the Registered Nurse, Supervisor/Case manager, and the patient’s physician regarding the absence of wound care treatment supplies, changes in wound care being provided by the Registered Nurse and to request physician’s input for new orders or for an alternate wound care treatment. On 11/13/24 at 2:45 PM the Director of Patient Services and the Director Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0606. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Preparing Clinical Notes

    The inspectors’ words, 236 words

    “Preparing clinical notes CFR(s): 484.75(b)(6) Preparing clinical notes; This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interview the agency failed to ensure all Registered Nurses /(SN) (skilled nurses) clinical notes are complete and accurately documented. This was evident for one (1) of three (3) clinical records reviewed. (Patient #1). Failure to ensure that clinicians prepare, and document complete and accurate clinical/ progress notes has the potential for negative patient outcome. The findings are: The Client Coordination Notes Report documents: 10/3/24: Wound assessment: Wound care provided: wound care not provided refused care. Narrative: Wound care was provided by the physician. The Client Coordination Notes Report documents: Note Date: 10/03/2024: Nurse visit for wound care was provided. Patient requires the supplies for wound vac. The Client Coordination Notes Report documents: Note Date:10/06/2024: Date of missed visit 10/5/24. Treatment not provided for the following reason: Patient was seen by MD (Medical Doctor) day before. Name of Medical Doctor notified: No. The Client Coordination Notes Report documents: Note Date:10/06/2024: Wound care was provided by the physician. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Registered Nurses /(SN) (skilled nurses) clinical notes being clear, concise, complete and accurately documenting the dates the wound care treatment is being provided. On 11/13/24 at 2:45 PM the Director of Patient Services and the Director Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0716. Element-level. From a complaint.

Sep 24, 2024: complaint inspection6 deficiencies
  • Receive All Services In Plan Of Care

    The inspectors’ words, 542 words

    “Receive all services in plan of care CFR(s): 484.50(c)(5) Receive all services outlined in the plan of care. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical record reviews, and staff interviews, the agency failed to ensure that all patients receive all services outlined in the plan of care. This was evident for two (2) of seven (7) clinical records reviewed (Patient #1, and #2). Failure to ensure all patients receive all services outlined in their plan of care, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: 1.Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 05/31/24 with the following diagnoses “Unilateral Primary Osteoarthritis of The First Carpometacarpal Joint In The Left Hand, Encounter For Other Orthopedic Aftercare, Other Chronic Pain” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 07/30/24 to 09/27/24. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 07/30/24 to 09/27/24 documents: “HHA 3wk1,5wk8 three (3) times a week for one (1) week, five (5) times a week for eight (8) weeks)” The Complaint/Incident: Inquiry dated 09/19/2024 documents: “QM (Quality Management) Investigation: The case is unstable, lots of missed visits. As per HHA exchange no clock in for 09/17/24. Aide finished her shift an hour earlier 09/16/24. No notes located in HHAX (Home Health Aide Exchange) indicating the reason. Action taken: contacted HHA (Home Health Aide) Vendor (name) to confirm and request a assistance on stabilizing the case. As per HHA (Home Health Aide) vendor: Member has a lapsed in services back in July week of 07/29/24. Member had another lapse in services on week of 08/19 until 8/28. Services resume 8/29. Regarding aide services no replacement was sent on several occasions due to member refusing pm services. There was another lapse of services on 08/20 to 8/28. On the month of August, no replacement was sent on 09/02,09/03,09/04,09/05, 09/10,09/11, 09/12, 09/13, 09/17, 09/18. Member contacted to discuss the lapse of services and requested schedule adjustment. SC (Schedule Coordinator) was not able to restaff the case due to difficulties staffing. SC (Schedule Coordinator) informed client that they are unable fulfill their request. The agency lacks documented evidence of any case communication with patient regarding missed Home Health Aide Visits. There is no documented evidence of the patient being offered a transfer to an agency that could provide Home Health Aide services. On 09/24/2024 at 04:00PM , the Administrator, the Director of Patient Services, and the Director Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation. 2.Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 12/28/23 with the following diagnoses “Cerebral Infarction due to Unspecified Occlusion or Stenosis of Left Posterior Cerebral Artery, Localization-Related (focal) (partial) Symptomatic Epilepsy and Epileptic Syndromes with Simple Partial Seizures, Intractable, without Status Epilepticus” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 12/28/23 to 02/25/24. The Physician order dated 02/5/2024 documents: “ST Eval (Speech Therapy Evaluation)” The Physician order dated 02/13/2024 documents: “ST (Speech Therapy) Evaluation and Treatment as of 02/13/24.” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of a Speech Therapy Evaluation. On 09/24/2024 at 04:00PM, the Administrator, the Director of Patient Services, and the Director Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation.”

    Rule G0436. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Investigate Complaints Made By Patient

    The inspectors’ words, 463 words

    “Investigate complaints made by patient CFR(s): 484.50(e)(1)(i) The HHA must— (i) Investigate complaints made by a patient, the patient’s representative (if any), and the patient’s caregivers and family, including, but not limited to, the following topics: (A) Treatment or care that is (or fails to be) furnished, is furnished inconsistently, or is furnished inappropriately; (B) Mistreatment, neglect, or verbal, mental, sexual, and physical abuse, including injuries of unknown source, and/or misappropriation of patient property by anyone furnishing services on behalf of the HHA. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical record reviews, and staff interviews, the agency failed to ensure all patient’s complaints are investigated. This was evident for one (1) of seven (7) clinical records reviewed (Patient #1). Failure to ensure all patient’s complaints are investigated has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: 1.Patient #4 has a Start of Care date of 11/30/2023 and discharge date of 01/25/2024 with the following diagnoses “Chronic Systolic (Congestive) Heart Failure, Ischemic Cardiomyopathy, Spinal Stenosis” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 11/30/2023 to 01/28/2024. The SN (Skilled Nurse) Visit Note dated 01/08/2024 (Monday) documents: “Section: Supervisory Functions: Is the client satisfied with the current care being provided by the HHA (Home Health Aide)? NO Narrative: Patient reports an incident with her HHA (Home Health Aide). Patient said an aide who was scheduled previously stole multiple items from her including her shampoo, staples, and other items. Patient also reports that her aide damaged her rollator by pushing rollator into cracks in the sidewalk when walking with patient. Patient does not recall aide’s name but said she has already called ACSS (Americare Certified Special Services) multiple times reporting the incident.” On 09/23/2024 the agency’s Complaint and Incident logs were reviewed. The Complaint and Incident logs lack documented evidence of Patient’s #4 complaint/incident in December 2023 and January 2024. The agency’s “Patient Complaints” Policy documents: “6. After the investigation is concluded, the complainant will be sent a letter within 15 days of the complaint filed date (for any complaint received in writing-by letter, e-mail or facsimile) or contacted via phone by (if complainant has requested this mode of communication) to apprise of the investigation findings. Patient representative Department will call the complainant and confirm that resolution was taken place, and the complainant is satisfied with the outcome.” There is no documented evidence of the investigation and resolution for the complaint within 15 days. There is no documented evidence of the patient being notified and satisfied with the investigation outcome. There is no documented evidence of the complaint on 01/08/2024 being documented in the complaint log. On 09/23/2024 at 03:30 pm, Director of Quality Management/ Compliance was interviewed and did not provide an explanation.”

    Rule G0478. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Plan Of Care Must Include The Following

    The inspectors’ words, 341 words

    “Plan of care must include the following CFR(s): 484.60(a)(2)(i-xvi) The individualized plan of care must include the following: (i) All pertinent diagnoses; (ii) The patient’s mental, psychosocial, and cognitive status; (iii) The types of services, supplies, and equipment required; (iv) The frequency and duration of visits to be made; (v) Prognosis; (vi) Rehabilitation potential; (vii) Functional limitations; (viii) Activities permitted; (ix) Nutritional requirements; (x) All medications and treatments; (xi) Safety measures to protect against injury; (xii) A description of the patient’s risk for emergency department visits and hospital re-admission, and all necessary interventions to address the underlying risk factors. (xiii) Patient and caregiver education and training to facilitate timely discharge; (xiv) Patient-specific interventions and education; measurable outcomes and goals identified by the HHA and the patient; (xv) Information related to any advanced directives; and (xvi) Any additional items the HHA or physician or allowed practitioner may choose to include. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on record review and interview this agency failed to ensure each patient’s individualized plan of care included all the required information. This was evident for one (1) of seven (7) clinical records reviewed (Patient #1). Failure to ensure individualized plan of care is established for all patients has the potential risk for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: 1.Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 05/31/24 with the following diagnoses “Unilateral Primary Osteoarthritis of The First Carpometacarpal Joint in The Left Hand, Encounter for Other Orthopedic Aftercare, Other Chronic Pain” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 07/30/24 to 09/27/24. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 07/30/24 to 09/27/24 documents: “HHA (Home Health Aide) 3wk1,5wk8 (three (3) times a week for one (1) week, five (5) times a week for eight (8) weeks)” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of Home Health Aide visits duration. On 09/24/2024 at 04:00 pm, the Administrator, the Director of Patient Services, and the Director Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation.”

    Rule G0574. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Integrate All Services

    The inspectors’ words, 537 words

    “Integrate all services CFR(s): 484.60(d)(3) Integrate services, whether services are provided directly or under arrangement, to assure the identification of patient needs and factors that could affect patient safety and treatment effectiveness and the coordination of care provided by all disciplines. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical record reviews, and staff interviews, the agency failed to integrate services to assure the identification of patient needs. This was evident for one (1) of seven (7) clinical records reviewed (Patient #1). Failure to integrate services to assure the identification of patient needs. has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: 1.Patient #4 has a Start of Care date of 11/30/2023 and discharge date of 01/25/2024 with the following diagnoses “Chronic Systolic (Congestive) Heart Failure, Ischemic Cardiomyopathy, Spinal Stenosis” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 11/30/2023 to 01/28/2024. The agency’s “Patient Complaints” Policy documents: “How to route the Patient communication to their immediate supervisor. 1) If a complaint is received during normal business hours, it must be forward to the employee’s immediate supervisor within one business day. ... 3) Regardless of the day received, an appropriate supervisor will be notified as soon as possible, but no later than 24 hours after receipt.” The SN (Skilled Nurse) Visit Note dated 01/08/2024 documents: “Section: Supervisory Functions: Is the client satisfied with the current care being provided by the HHA (Home Health Aide)? NO Narrative: Patient reports an incident with her HHA (Home Health Aide). Patient said an aide who was scheduled previously stole multiple items from her including her shampoo, staples, and other items. Patient also reports that her aide damaged her rollator by pushing rollator into cracks in the sidewalk when walking with patient. Patient does not recall aide’s name but said she has already called ACSS (Americare Certified Special Services) multiple times reporting the incident.” The Clinical Record lacks documented evidence of the nurse notifying the agency supervisory staff no later than 24 hours after receipt complaint/concerns on 01/08/2024. The agency’s LHCSA (Licensed Home Care Service Agency) Investigator documents none of the aides have previous complaints filed against them for theft allegation or property damage. The Caregivers deny the allegations. The Complaint/Incident Form documents: “Date Initially Reported: 02-28-2024 Reported by: Americare INC Relationship to patient: HHA Vendor Complaint/Incident: Complaint Category: Theft Allegation Investigation: Note was placed by Supervisor on 12/22/2023 -“Spoke to patient regarding miss visits. Per patient, she had a bad experience with the aide and has not been sure if she wants to accept services at this time.” The complaint/correspondence(e-mail) from the patient to the LHCSA dated 12/31/2023, 01/05/2024, 01/10/2024, 01/19/2024 and 02/26/2024 documents: “Subject: Invoice for list of items stolen from my house and walker damaged during walk to/from MD (Medical Doctor). “ On 09/23/2024 the agency’s Complaint and Incident logs were reviewed. The Complaint and Incident logs lack documented evidence of Patient’s #4 complaint/incident in December 2023 and January 2024. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of communication between the HHA (Home Health Aide) vendor and agency regarding patient’s complaint(s) before 02/28/2024. On 09/24/2024 at 04:30 pm, Director of Quality Management/ Compliance was interviewed and did not provide an explanation.”

    Rule G0606. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Coordinate Care Delivery

    The inspectors’ words, 253 words

    “Coordinate care delivery CFR(s): 484.60(d)(4) Coordinate care delivery to meet the patient’s needs, and involve the patient, representative (if any), and caregiver(s), as appropriate, in the coordination of care activities. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interviews, the agency failed to ensure that all clinicians coordinate care delivery to meet the patient’s needs. This was evident for one (1) of seven (7) patient care records reviewed (Patient #2). Failure to ensure that all clinicians coordinate to the patient or caregiver the delivery of care has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: 1.Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 12/28/23 with the following diagnoses “Cerebral Infarction due to Unspecified Occlusion or Stenosis of Left Posterior Cerebral Artery, Localization-Related (focal) (partial) Symptomatic Epilepsy and Epileptic Syndromes with Simple Partial Seizures, Intractable, without Status Epilepticus” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 12/28/23 to 02/25/24. The Physician order dated 02/5/2024 documents: “ST Eval (Speech Therapy Evaluation)” The Physician order dated 02/13/2024 documents: “ST (Speech Therapy) Evaluation and Treatment as of 02/13/24.” The Physician order dated 02/23/2024 documents: “Patient Discharged 2/23/24”. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of a Speech Therapy Evaluation. There is no documented evidence of communication with patient/family about discharging the patient without the patient receiving Speech Therapy Services. On 09/24/2024 at 04:00 pm, the Administrator, the Director of Patient Services, and the Director Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation.”

    Rule G0608. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Communication With Physicians

    The inspectors’ words, 543 words

    “Communication with physicians CFR(s): 484.75(b)(7) Communication with all physicians involved in the plan of care and other health care practitioners (as appropriate) related to the current plan of care; This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on review of clinical record reviews, and staff interviews, the agency failed to ensure ongoing communication with the physician involved in the patient’s plan of care is maintained. This was evident for two (2) of seven (7) clinical records reviewed (Patient #1, and #2). Failure to ensure ongoing communication with the physician involved in the patient’s plan of care has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: 1.Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 05/31/24 with the following diagnoses “ Unilateral Primary Osteoarthritis of The First Carpometacarpal Joint In The Left Hand, Encounter For Other Orthopedic Aftercare, Other Chronic Pain” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 07/30/24 to 09/27/24. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 07/30/24 to 09/27/24 documents: “HHA 3wk1,5wk8 (three(3) times a week for one (1) week, five(5) times a week for eight (8) weeks)” The Complaint/Incident: Inquiry dated 09/19/2024 documents: “QM (Quality Management) Investigation: The case is unstable, lots of missed visits. As per HHA exchange no clock in for 09/17/24. Aide finished her shift an hour earlier 09/16/24. No notes located in HHAX (Home Health Aide Exchange) indicating the reason. Action taken: contacted HHA (Home Health Aide) Vendor (name) to confirm and request an assistance on stabilizing the case. As per HHA (Home Health Aide) vendor: Member has a lapsed in services back in July week of 07/29/24. Member had another lapse in services on week of 08/19 until 8/28. Services resume 8/29. Regarding aide services no replacement was sent on several occasions due to member refusing pm services. There was another lapse of services on 08/20 to 8/28. On the month of August, no replacement was sent on 09/02,09/03,09/04,09/05, 09/10,09/11, 09/12, 09/13, 09/17, 09/18. Member contacted to discuss the lapse of services and requested schedule adjustment. SC (Schedule Coordinator) was not able to restaff the case due to difficulties staffing. SC (Schedule Coordinator) informed client that they are unable fulfill their request. There is no documented evidence of the patient’s physician being notified that the patient did not receive Home Health Aide services as ordered in Plan of Care. 2.Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 12/28/23 with the following diagnoses “Cerebral Infarction due to Unspecified Occlusion or Stenosis of Left Posterior Cerebral Artery, Localization-Related (focal) (partial) Symptomatic Epilepsy and Epileptic Syndromes with Simple Partial Seizures, Intractable, without Status Epilepticus” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 12/28/23 to 02/25/24. The Physician order dated 02/5/2024 documents: “ST Eval (Speech Therapy Evaluation)” The Physician order dated 02/13/2024 documents: “ST (Speech Therapy) Evaluation and Treatment as of 02/13/24.” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of a Speech Therapy Evaluation. There is no documented evidence of the physician being notified that the patient did not receive Speech Therapy as ordered in Plan of Care. On 09/24/2024 at 04:00 pm, the Administrator, the Director of Patient Services, and the Director Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation.”

    Rule G0718. Element-level. From a complaint.

Mar 1, 2024: complaint and recertification inspection13 deficiencies
  • Accuracy Of Encoded Oasis Data

    The inspectors’ words, 1,176 words

    “Accuracy of encoded OASIS data CFR(s): 484.45(b) Standard: The encoded OASIS data must accurately reflect the patient’s status at the time of assessment. This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical records review and staff interview the agency failed to ensure the encoded OASIS (The Outcome and Assessment Information Set) assessments accurately reflect each patient’s status at the time of the assessment. This was evident for four (4) of twenty-five (25) clinical records reviewed (Patient: #1, #2, #5, and #21). Failure to ensure the encoded OASIS (The Outcome and Assessment Information Set) accurately reflect the patient’s status at the time of the assessment, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Finding Are: 4. Patient #21 has a Start of Care of 2/10/2023 with the diagnoses ”Bilateral Primary Osteoarthritis of Knee, Colostomy Status, Hypertensive Heart Disease with Heart Failure, Heart Failure, Unspecified, Unspecified Atrial Fibrillation, Athscl (Arteriosclerosis) Heart Disease of Native Coronary Artery w/o Ang Pctrs (Angina Pectoris), Anemia, Unspecified, Hypothyroidism, Unspecified, Muscle Weakness (Generalized)” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 2/5/24 to 4/4/2024. The agency’s “Referral Request for Home Care Services” documents: “Date: 1/24/23. The Registered Nurse Start of Care OASIS (Outcome and Assessment Information Set) Admission Comprehensive Assessment dated 02/10/2023 documents: “Assessment: Has the client received home health services from a different home health provider in the past 60 days? No.” On 2/29/24 at 3:45pm the Administrator, Director of Quality, and the Director of Patient Services were interviewed regarding the period between the referral date and the Start of Care date. On 3/1/24 at 2:20pm the following notes were provided: The Client Coordination Note Report documents: “Note Date: 02/08/2023 Note: As per Name (Name of Agency) PT (patient) was DC (discharge on 2/8/23. The Client Coordination Note Report documents: Note Date: 02/10/2023: As per Administrator, family called to schedule visit for today.” The Registered Nurse Start of Care OASIS lacks documented evidence of an accurate assessment of the patient receiving home health services from a different home health provider 60 days prior. No additional information was provided. 1. Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 02/08/2023 and a discharge date of 04/14/2023 with the following diagnoses “Unstageable Pressure Ulcer of Right Heel, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 02/08/2023 to 04/08/2023 and 04/09/2023 to 08/07/2023. The Visit Note Report (Admission) dated 02/08/2023 documents: Does the patient have at least one unhealed pressure ulcer at Stage 2 or higher or designated as unstageable? NO The Visit Note Report (Subsequent visit) dated 04/14/2023 documents: Wound Assessment #1 Rt (right) heel, Rt (right) Unstage (unstageable); Granulation tissue 25%; Epithelialization 50-<75%; Necrotic Tissue Type: None. The Visit Note Report (Discharge Data Collection Only) dated 04/14/2023 documents: The Oldest Stage 2 pressure ulcer that is present at discharge: Was present at the most recent SOC/ROC (start of care / resumption of care) assessment. Current number of unhealed pressure ulcers at stage 2: 1 Number of these stage 2 pressure ulcers that were present at most recent SOC/ROC (start of care / resumption of care)? 1 Current number of unhealed pressure ulcers at unstageable: non-removable dressing: 0 Current number of unhealed pressure ulcers at unstageable: slough and/or eschar: 0 Current number of unhealed pressure ulcers at unstageable: deep tissue injury: 0 Stage of most problematic unhealed pressure ulcer that is stageable: Stage 2. The Discharge OASIS lacks documented evidence of an accurate reflection of patient’s status – with unstageable pressure ulcer and no stage 2 on start of care or on discharge. On 02/27/2024 at 01:50pm, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Education were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 10/20/2022 and a discharge date of 10/10/2023 with the following diagnoses “Malignant Neoplasm of Unspecified Site of Left Female Breast; Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without Complications” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 08/16/2023 to 10/14/2023. The Visit Note Report (Discharge from Agency) dated 10/10/2023 documents: “Emergent Care: At the time of or at any time since the most recent SOC/ROC (start of care / resumption of care) assessment has the patient utilized a hospital emergency department? YES, used hospital emergency department without hospital admission.” “Reason for emergent care: for what reason(s) did the patient seek and/or receive emergent care (with or without hospitalization)? Improper medication administration, adverse drug reactions, medication side effects, toxicity, anaphylaxis; hypo/hyperglycemia, diabetes out of control.” The Discharge OASIS lacks documented evidence of an accurate reflection of patient’s status – no emergent care and no hypo/hyperglycemia. On 02/28/2024 at 12:41pm, the Director of Quality Measure/Compliance was interviewed and stated, “there was no ER (emergency room) visit, it was documentation error”, no further explanation for the findings provided. 3. Patient #5 has a Start of Care date of 08/09/2023 and a discharge date of 02/01/2024 with the following diagnoses “Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Mild Non-proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy without Macular Edema, Peripheral Vascular Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 12/07/2023 to 02/04/2024. The Visit Note Report (Resumption of Care) dated 09/06/2023 documents: Does the patient have at least one unhealed pressure ulcer at Stage 2 or higher or designated as unstageable? YES Current number of unhealed pressure ulcers at stage 3: 0 Current number of unhealed pressure ulcers at unstageable: non-removable dressing: 1 Stage of most problematic unhealed pressure ulcer that is stageable: Stage 3 Does this patient have a surgical wound? NO Wound Assessment: “#4 Med edge of Foot, Rt (right), Surgical.” The Resumption of Care OASIS lacks documented evidence of an accurate reflection of patient’s status – no pressure ulcers, with surgical wound. The Visit Note Report (Recertification with Skill) dated 12/05/2023 documents: “Does the patient have at least one unhealed pressure ulcer at stage 2 or higher or designated as unstageable? YES Wound Assessment: “#5 Ant (anterior) Great toe, LT (left) Diab (diabetic) Ulcer” “#4 Med edge of Foot, Rt (right), Surgical.” The Recertification OASIS lacks documented evidence of an accurate reflection of patient’s status – no pressure ulcers, with diabetic and surgical wound. The Visit Note Report (subsequent visit) dated 02/01/2024 documents: Wound Assessment: “#5 Ant (anterior) Great toe, LT (left) Diab (diabetic) Ulcer” “#4 Med edge of Foot, Rt (right), Surgical.” The Visit Note Report (Discharge Data Collection only) dated 02/01/2024 documents: “Does the patient have at least one unhealed pressure ulcer at stage 2 or higher or designated as unstageable? YES Number of stage 2 pressure ulcers that were present at most recent SOC/ROC (start of care/ resumption of care)? 1 Stage of most problematic unhealed pressure ulcer that is stageable: Stage 2 Does this patient have a surgical wound? NO The Discharge OASIS lacks documented evidence of an accurate reflection of patient’s status – no pressure ulcers, with diabetic and surgical wound. On 02/28/2024 at 12:41pm, the Director of Quality Management/Compliance was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0374. Standard-level. From a complaint.

  • Investigation Of Complaints

    The inspectors’ words, 444 words

    “Investigation of complaints CFR(s): 484.50(e)(1) Standard: Investigation of complaints. The HHA must-- This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical records review and staff interview the agency failed to complete investigation of all complaints. This was evident for two (2) of twenty-five (25) clinical records reviewed (Patient: #18, and #19). Failure to complete investigation of all complaints, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Finding Are: 1. Patient #18 has a Start of Care date of 05/19/23 and discharge date of 7/13/23 with diagnoses “Essential (Primary) Hypertension, Unspecified Atrial Fibrillation, Unspecified Diastolic (Congestive) Heart Failure,” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 5/19/23 to 7/17/23. The HHA eXchange Patient General Notes documents the following: “Created Date: 06/26/2023 12:21 Note: Received call from patient’s daughter stating aide did not show up on 6/23/23 (Friday) and just arrived at case after 12pm today. Aide clocked in out of range at 9am. 06/27/2023 15:20 Note: Client daughter stated she informed aide on 6/26 not to return to pt.(patient) 06/27/2023 14:47 Note: did aide work today we received a DOH (Department of Health) call. 06/27/2023 15:02 Note: Aide clock out but never service client.” There is no documented evidence of a complaint in the complaint log. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of a complaint investigation regarding the patient’s daughter reporting of the aide’s no show, no home health services being provided on 6/23, and the reason for the aide’s dismissal on 6/26. On 2/29/24 at 3:30pm, the Director of Quality Management/Compliance, the Administrator, and the Director of Patient Services were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient # 19 has a Start of Care date of 9/24/22 and discharge date of 1/21/23 with diagnoses “Aftercare following Joint Replacement Surgery, Difficulty in Walking, not Elsewhere Classified, Repeated Falls, Muscle Weakness (Generalized)” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 9/24/22 to 11/22/22. The HHA eXchange Patient General Notes documents the following: “Created Date: 09/28/2022 12:52 Note: As per a conversation with patient, aide did not show today, please call her back and let her know who will be going. 09/29/2022 15:21 Note: there was a miscommunication with aide, and she was unable to service the client. 10/17/2022 12:20 Note: Please call member as she said her case was closed but is supposed to receive an aide until 11/22/22. There is no documented evidence of a complaint in the complaint log. On 2/29/24 at 3:30PM the Director of Quality Management/Compliance, the Director of Patient Services, and the Administrator, were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0476. Standard-level. From a complaint.

  • Plan Of Care

    The inspectors’ words, 2,049 words

    “Plan of care CFR(s): 484.60(a)(1) Each patient must receive the home health services that are written in an individualized plan of care that identifies patient-specific measurable outcomes and goals, and which is established, periodically reviewed, and signed by a doctor of medicine, osteopathy, or podiatry acting within the scope of his or her state license, certification, or registration. If a physician or allowed practitioner refers a patient under a plan of care that cannot be completed until after an evaluation visit, the physician or allowed practitioner is consulted to approve additions or modifications to the original plan. This Standard is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical records review and staff interview the agency failed to ensure that all patients receive services as documented in their individualized plan of care. This was evident for eight (8) of twenty-five (25) clinical records reviewed (Patient: #7, #13, #18, #19, #20, #16, #22, and #24). Failure to ensure that all patients receive services as documented in their individualized plan of care has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: 8. Patient #24 has a Start of Care date of 10/20/2022 with the following diagnoses “Dysphagia Following Cerebral Infarction; Hypertensive Heart and Chronic Kidney Disease with Heart Failure and with Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease, or End Stage Renal Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 10/20/2022 to 12/18/2022. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 10/20/2022 to 12/18/2022 documents: hha (home health aide) effective 10/23/2022 5WK8 (five times a week for eight weeks). The Client Coordination Note Report dated 10/27/2022 documents: “Spoke to Pt (patient) daughter updating her the aide did a no call no show and coordinator was unaware of that, but will follow up with her with new aide info.” The Client Calendar Report aide providing services on: 10/28/2022, 10/31/2022 to 11/04/2022. There is no documented evidence of the follow up and notification of missed visit on 10/27/2022. There is no documented evidence of the patient receiving aide services as ordered on the plan of care, missing four visits between 10/23/2022 to 10/29/2022. On 02/28/2024 at 02:30pm, the Administrator, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 1.Patient#7 has a Start of Care date of 12/09/2021 and discharge date of 12/21/2021 with the following diagnoses “Parkinson’s Disease, Essential (Primary) Hypertension, Hypothyroidism” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/09/2021 to 02/06/2021. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/09/2021 to 02/06/2021 documents:” SN (Skilled Nurse) 1WK4 (one time per week for four weeks), PT (Physical Therapy) Eval. (Evaluation), HHA (Home Health Aide) effective 12/12/2021 5WK 3 (five days a week for three week)” The Supplemental Orders dated 12/14/2021 documents: “Physical Therapist to evaluate/assess and develop Physical Therapy Plan of Care to be signed by the Physician. PT (Physical Therapy) eval. treat as of 12/15/21.” The Clinical Record lacks documented evidence of the PT (Physical Therapy) evaluation the week of 12/09/2021, 12/12/2021 and no documented evidence of the patient receiving PT (Physical Therapy) services. The Clinical Record lacks documented evidence of the patient receiving Home Health Aide services. On 02/29/2024 at 03:30 pm, the Administrator, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation. 2. Patient #13 has a Start of Care date of 03/15/2023 with diagnoses Encounter for Surgical Aftercare Following Surgery on the Genitourinary System, Malignant Neoplasm of Prostate, Presence of Urogenital Implants documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 03/15/2023 to 05/13/2023. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 03/15/2023 to 05/13/2023 documents: “hha (home health aide) effective (week of) 03/19/2023 5WK5 (five days a week (Monday-Friday) for five weeks)” for “4 Hours” a day. The aide Duty Sheet documents one aide visit on 03/22/2023 (Wednesday) for two hours during the week of 03/19/2023. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of aide service being provided prior to 03/22/2023. The clinical record documents four missed visits during the week of 03/19/2023 and a delay in initiating aide services. The aide Duty sheet dated 03/22/2023 lacks documented evidence of the patient receiving aide service for four hours as ordered in the plan of care. The aide vendor communication notes document the following regarding missed visits: 03/23/2023 - “Aide called out. Patient’s family stated replacement is needed;” 03/23/2023 - “I called Pt (Patient) (family) to inform (vendor) is still looking (for) coverage today. Pt (Patient) (family) is very upset because the repl (replacement) is not found in time;” “coordinator please f/u (follow-up).” 03/23/2023 - “We care currently looking for a replacement aide for Pt (Patient) because Pt (Patient) (family) requested to remove hha (home health aide) (assigned 03/22/2023) from the calendar because (aide) called out today on 03/23/2023 and yesterday (03/22/2023) (aide) arrive(d) late. (Patient’s family) is aware we are currently looking for a replacement aide that is able to take case permanently.” 03/23/2023 – “Please be advised that an aide was found today but Pt (Patient) (family) stated (family) no longer needs the aide because Pt (Patient) has a medical appointment at 1pm.” 03/24/2023 – “(Patient family) has called following up on status of aide; was informed (aide assigned 03/22/2023) was scheduled for 9am. (Family) is upset bc(because) aide (name) was suppose(d) to be removed; (family) was informed by coordinator (patient) would be getting a replacement. Case has been opened up.” 03/24/2024 – “(Vendor) unable to provide replacement (aide) coverage (no show, no replacement);” “Please be advised that Pt(Patient) (family) is aware that replacement aide was not found (family) is very upset (family) stated (family) no longer wants to keep waiting for an aide.” The agency failed to timely remove the aide from the case as requested on 03/23/2023 and find and assign a replacement aide to provide services on 03/24/2023. The Clinical Record lacks documented evidence of the patient receiving home health aide services five days a week as ordered in the plan of care. On 02/29/2024 at 2:30 PM, the Administrator, the Director of Patient Services, and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the finding. 3. Patient #18 has a Start of Care date of 05/19/23 and discharge date of 7/13/23 with diagnoses “Essential (Primary) Hypertension, Unspecified Atrial Fibrillation, Unspecified Diastolic (Congestive) Heart Failure,” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 5/19/23 to 7/17/23. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 5/19/23 to 7/17/23 documents “HHA (Home Health Aide) Effective 05/21/2023: 4WK1, 5WK6 5 DX4H: Effective: 7/9/23: 4WK 1 (Four times for one week, five times a week for six weeks – five days a week for four hours). The HHA eXchange Duty Sheet documents: Monday 6/26/23: TimeIn: 12:00 TimeOut13:00 Total Hours: 01:00 The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the patient receiving the number of service hours as ordered in the Plan of Care. The Client Calendar Report documents “Visit Date: Begin Time: End Time: Service Code: The Client Calendar Report lacked documented evidence of four home health aide visits for the week 5/21/2023 (and five documented visits for the week 6/18/23 (missed visit 6/22). The Aides Care Plan Report documents “Care Plan Category/ Service: Frequency: Daily: Bathing-Shower with Chair: Dressing: Stand-By Assistance with ambulation: Assist to toilet: Provide Medication Reminders: Prepare Meal: Home Exercise Program: Shampoo: Frequency: 3XWeekly (three times a week) The HHA eXchange Duty Sheet lacks documented evidence of all daily services being provided as ordered for the following dates:/6/1,6/2, 6/6, 6/8, 6/21, 6/26, 6/29, 6/30, 7/3, 7/4, 7/5, 7/6, 7/7, 7/10,7/11, 7/12, 7/13, The HHA eXchange Duty Sheet lacks documented evidence of the following services being provided three times a week as ordered in the Plan of Care for the following dates: Weeks ending of 6/30, 7/7,7/14, The clinical record lacks documented evidence of home health services being provided as ordered in the Plan of Care. On 2/30/24 at 3:00pm, the Administrator, the director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management/compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation. 4.Patient # 19 has a Start of Care date of 9/24/22 and discharge date of 1/21/23 with diagnoses “Aftercare following Joint Replacement Surgery, Difficulty in Walking, not Elsewhere Classified, Repeated Falls, Muscle Weakness (Generalized)” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 9/24/22 to 11/22/22. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 9/24/22 to 11/22/22 documents: HHA (Home Health Aide) 5 Day/4 hrs/Per Day- Mon to Fri (Five days for four hours per day- Monday through Friday). The Client Calendar Report lacks documented evidence of home health aide services being provided on 9/28, 9/29, and 10/17/22 as ordered in the Plan of Care. The Aide Care of Plan Report documents: “Care Plan Category/ Service: Assist to Toilet: Assist TO Bedside Commode Shower with Chair: Prepare Meal: Offer Fluids: Apply Lotion: Every Visit.” There is no documented evidence of all services being provided on every visit as ordered in the Plan of Care for the following dates: 9/27, 9/30, 10/3, 10/4, 10/5, 10/6, 10/7, 10/10, 10/11, 10/12, 10/13,10/14, 10/19, 10/20, 10/21, 10/26, 10/27, 10/28, 10/31. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of home health services being provided as ordered in the Plan of Care. On 2/29/24 at 3:30PM the Administrator, the director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management/ Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation. 5. Patient #20 has a Start of Care date of 11/28/2023 with diagnosis Non- Pressure Chronic Ulcer Other Part Right Lower Leg with Unspecified Severity, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Without Complications, Hyperglycemia, Unspecified, Morbid (Severe) Obesity due to Excess Calories, Anxiety Disorder, Unspecified, Difficulty walking, Not Elsewhere Classified” on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 1/27/24 to 3/26/24. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 1/27/24 to 3/26/24 documents: Frequency/ Duration of Visits: SN (Skilled Nurse) Effective 01/28/2024 1WK8 ( one time a week for eight weeks). Physician Orders: Order Date: 2/15/24 10:06AM Service Changes: Calendar Frequency: SN (Skilled Nurse) Effective 02/11/2024 2WK1, 3WK5, 1WK1 ( two times a week for one week, three times a week for five weeks, one time for one week). The Client Calendar Report Documents: Skilled Nurse visit for visit date 2/1, 2/15 and 2/17. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the patient receiving a Skilled Nurse visit for the week of 2/4/24 as written in the plan of care. On 2/29/24 at 3:30PM the Director of Quality Management/ Compliance, the Director of Patient Services, and the Administrator were interviewed and did not provide and explanation for the finding. 6. Patient#16 has a Start of Care date of 07/18/23 with the following diagnoses “Chronic Respiratory Failure With Hypoxia, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, and Heart Failure” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 07/18/23 to 09/15/23. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 07/18/23 to 09/15/23 documents: “HHA (Home Health Aide) 3wk1 (three days a week for one week), 5wk 7 (five days a week for seven weeks).” The Clinical Record lacks documented evidence of the patient receiving Home Health Aide services in week one (07/18 – 7/22), and week two (07/23-7/29). On 02/29/2024 at 03:30 pm, the Administrator, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation. 7. Patient#22 has a Start of Care date of 01/23/23 with the following diagnoses “Autistic Disorder, and Other Abnormalities of Gait and Mobility” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 01/18/24 to 03/17/24. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 01/18/24 to 03/17/24documents: “HHA (Home Health Aide) Friday 2 hours, Saturday 12 hours, Sunday 5 hours” The Clinical Record lacks documented evidence of the patient receiving Home Health Aide services on 01/19, 01/20, 01/21, 01/26, 2/2, 2/9, 2/18, 02/23, 02/24, and 02/25. On 02/29/2024 at 03:30 pm, the Administrator, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation.”

    Rule G0572. Standard-level. From a complaint.

  • Participate In Care

    The inspectors’ words, 1,012 words

    “Participate in care CFR(s): 484.50(c)(4)(i,ii,iii,iv,v,vi,vii,viii) Participate in, be informed about, and consent or refuse care in advance of and during treatment, where appropriate, with respect to-- (i) Completion of all assessments; (ii) The care to be furnished, based on the comprehensive assessment; (iii) Establishing and revising the plan of care; (iv) The disciplines that will furnish the care; (v) The frequency of visits; (vi) Expected outcomes of care, including patient-identified goals, and anticipated risks and benefits; (vii) Any factors that could impact treatment effectiveness; and (viii) Any changes in the care to be furnished. This Element is not met as evidenced by: . Based on clinical records review and staff interview the agency failed to ensure that all patients informed about changes in planned care. This was evident for three (3) of twenty-five (25) clinical records reviewed (Patient: #4, #7, and 13). Failure to ensure that all patients are informed about changes in planned care, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Finding Are: 3. Patient #13 has a Start of Care date of 03/15/2023 with diagnoses Encounter for Surgical Aftercare Following Surgery on the Genitourinary System, Malignant Neoplasm of Prostate, Presence of Urogenital Implants documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 03/15/2023 to 05/13/2023. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 03/15/2023 to 05/13/2023 documents: “hha (home health aide) effective (week of) 03/19/2023 5WK5 (five days (Monday-Friday) a week for five weeks)” for “4 Hours” a day. The aide Duty Sheet dated 03/22/0223 documents an initial aide service date of 03/22/2023 (Wednesday) for two hours during the week of 03/19/2023. The home health aide vendor communication notes document the following: 03/23/2023 - “Aide called out. Patient’s family stated replacement is needed.” 03/23/2023 - “I called Pt (Patient) (family) to inform (vendor) is still looking (for) coverage today. Pt (Patient) (family) is very upset because the repl (replacement) is not found in time.” 03/23/2023 - “We care currently looking for a replacement aide for Pt (Patient) because Pt (Patient) (family) requested to remove hha (home health aide) (assigned 03/22/2023) from the calendar because (aide) called out today on 03/23/2023 and yesterday (aide) arrive(d) late. (Patient’s family) is aware we are currently looking for a replacement aide that is able to take case permanently.” 03/24/2023 – “(Patient family) has called following up on status of aide; (family) was informed (initial aide assigned 03/22/2023) was scheduled for 9am. (Family) is upset bc (because) aide (name) was suppose to be removed; (family) was informed by coordinator (patient) would be getting a replacement. Case has been opened up.” 3/24/2024 – “(Vendor) unable to provide replacement (aide) coverage (no show, no replacement);” “Please be advised that Pt(Patient) (family) is aware that replacement aide was not found (family) is very upset (family) stated (family) no longer wants to keep waiting for an aide.” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the patient/family being informed and agreeing to the initial aide returning on 03/24/2023. The clinical record documents the agency failed respect the patient/family’s request/choice on 03/23/2023 to remove and replace the aide initially assigned. There is no documented evidence the agency respecting the patient/family’s care choices and preferences regarding home health aide services. On 02/29/2024 at 2:30 PM, the Administrator. The Director of Patient Services, and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the finding. 2. Patient #7 has a Start of Care date of 12/09/2021 and discharge date of 12/21/2021 with the following diagnoses “Parkinson’s Disease, Essential (Primary) Hypertension, Hypothyroidism” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/09/2021 to 02/06/2021. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 12/09/2021 to 02/06/2021 documents:” HHA (Home Health Aide) effective 12/12/2021 5WK 3 (five days a week for three week)” The Clinical Record lacks documented evidence of the patient receiving the Home Health Aide services. There is no documented evidence of the patient being informed of the hha (home health aide) services changes. On 02/29/2024 at 03:30 PM, the Administrator, the Director of Patient Services, and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the finding. 1. Patient #4 (not admitted to the agency). The Client Coordination Note Report dated 12/26/2023 documents: “Date of missed visit: 12/19/23. Visit was not completed due to NTUC (not taken under care) and DNTB (do not take back) upon initial assessment.” The Email Print-out dated 12/21/2023 documents: “Upon inspecting the home and status of the patient, (patient #4), I am deeming that it is unsafe to enroll this patient into homecare. Patient has multiple large dogs that has torn his catheter bag. The dogs are not well trained and has no barrier to separate from patient or trained professionals as they jump over a gate with ease. One of the dogs jumped on me preventing me from moving creating a hazard and barrier to continue my job. The home has a strong foul odor of what it seems to be dog urine. The hallway floors of the home are covered in clumps of wet dog hair. There are many sanitization hazards throughout the home with hoarding being a tremendous problem. The living space of where the patient stays is small, and he is chair bound. Patient #4 has admitted to lying about his clinical status to his family so he can get discharged home via ambulette. His daughter and SIL (son in law) was shocked when he arrived that he was not able to move on his own. His daughter and SIL (son in law) seems overwhelmed and unfit to care for the patient. I highly recommend that the patient be referred to a skilled nursing facility as he needs around the clock professional help in a safe environment.” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of patient being informed of non-acceptance during the initial assessment. On 02/28/2024 at 02:30pm, the Administrator, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0434. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Advise The Patient Of Discharge For Cause

    The inspectors’ words, 391 words

    “Advise the patient of discharge for cause CFR(s): 484.50(d)(5)(i) (i) Advise the patient, representative (if any), the physician(s) or allowed practitioner(s), issuing orders for the home health plan of care, and the patient’s primary care practitioner or other health care professional who will be responsible for providing care and services to the patient after discharge from the HHA (if any) that a discharge for cause is being considered; This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical records review and staff interview the agency failed to advise the patient that a discharge for cause is being considered. This was evident for one (1) of twenty-five (25) clinical records reviewed (Patient: #5). Failure to advise the patient that a discharge for cause is being considered, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Finding Are: 1. Patient #5 has a Start of Care date of 08/09/2023 and a discharge date of 02/01/2024 with the following diagnoses “Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Mild Non-proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy without Macular Edema, Peripheral Vascular Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 12/07/2023 to 02/04/2024. The Email Print-Out thread from Registered Nurse documents: 02/03/2024 “After he told me all the bad words that he possibly could, I decided to pick up my items and leave the bedroom in a rush. The patient started walking VERY WELL and followed me to the living room to keep yelling at me.” “He was very fast, but I managed to run faster and take the emergency door to the stairs. I jumped all the stairs until I got to the first floor before him. I got in my car and left him behind.” 02/06/2024 at 12:17pm “Pt (patient) calling, was pt (patient) and MD (medical doctor) informed case will be d/c (discharge). I have to call pt (patient) back please let us know.” 02/06/2024 at 2:03pm “I tried reaching pt (patient) no answer.” 02/09/2024 at 10:31am “(name) was pt (patient) and MD (medical doctor) told of d.c (discharge)” 02/09/2024 at 11:41am “Please be advised that I have already informed the doctor.” There is no documented evidence that the agency advised the patient of discharge for cause. On 02/28/2024 at 02:30pm, the Administrator, the Directors of Patient Services, and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0464. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Health, Psychosocial, Functional, Cognition

    The inspectors’ words, 705 words

    “Health, psychosocial, functional, cognition CFR(s): 484.55(c)(1) The patient’s current health, psychosocial, functional, and cognitive status; This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical records reviews and staff interview, the agency failed to ensure that all assessments documents an accurate reflection of the patient status. This was evident for two (2) of twenty-five (25) clinical records reviewed (Patient: #1, and #5). Failure to ensure that all assessments documents an accurate reflection of patient status, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: 1. Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 02/08/2023 and a discharge date of 04/14/2023 with the following diagnoses “Unstageable Pressure Ulcer of Right Heel, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 02/08/2023 to 04/08/2023 and 04/09/2023 to 06/07/2023. The Visit Note Report (Subsequent visit) dated 03/28/2023 and 04/14/2023 documents: “Wound Assessment #1 Rt (right) heel, Rt (right) Unstage (unstageable); Granulation tissue 25%; Epithelialization 50-<75%; Necrotic Tissue Type: None.” The Visit Note Report (Discharge Data Collection Only) dated 04/14/2023 documents: “Current number of unhealed pressure ulcers at stage 2: 1 Current number of unhealed pressure ulcers at unstageable: non-removable dressing: 0 Current number of unhealed pressure ulcers at unstageable: slough and/or eschar: 0 Current number of unhealed pressure ulcers at unstageable: deep tissue injury: 0 Stage of most problematic unhealed pressure ulcer that is stageable: Stage 2.” There is no documented evidence of an accurate staging of the pressure ulcer – unstageable without slough, eschar, or non-removable dressing; with unstageable and no stage 2 pressure ulcer. There is no documented evidence of an accurate reflection of patient status. On 02/27/2024 at 01:50pm, the Directors of Patient Services, and the Director of Education were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #5 has a Start of Care date of 08/09/2023 and a discharge date of 02/01/2024 with the following diagnoses “Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Mild Non-proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy without Macular Edema, Peripheral Vascular Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 12/07/2023 to 02/04/2024. The Visit Note Report (Resumption of Care) dated 09/06/2023 documents: “Does the patient have at least one unhealed pressure ulcer at Stage 2 or higher or designated as unstageable? YES Current number of unhealed pressure ulcers at stage 3: 0 Current number of unhealed pressure ulcers at unstageable: non-removable dressing: 1 Stage of most problematic unhealed pressure ulcer that is stageable: Stage 3 Does this patient have a surgical wound? NO Wound Assessment: “#4 Med edge of Foot, Rt (right), Surgical.” The comprehensive assessment lacks documented evidence of an accurate reflection of patient’s status – no pressure ulcers, with surgical wound. The Visit Note Report (Recertification with Skill) dated 12/05/2023 documents: “Does the patient have at least one unhealed pressure ulcer at stage 2 or higher or designated as unstageable? YES Wound Assessment: “#5 Ant (anterior) Great toe, LT (left) Diab (diabetic) Ulcer” “#4 Med edge of Foot, Rt (right), Surgical.” The comprehensive assessment lacks documented evidence of an accurate reflection of patient’s status – no pressure ulcers, with diabetic and surgical wound. The Visit Note Report (subsequent visit) dated 02/01/2024 documents: Wound Assessment: “#5 Ant (anterior) Great toe, LT (left) Diab (diabetic) Ulcer, #4 Med edge of Foot, Rt (right), Surgical.” The Visit Note Report (Discharge Data Collection only) dated 02/01/2024 documents: “Does the patient have at least one unhealed pressure ulcer at stage 2 or higher or designated as unstageable? YES Number of stage 2 pressure ulcers that were present at most recent SOC/ROC (start of care/ resumption of care)? 1 Stage of most problematic unhealed pressure ulcer that is stageable: Stage 2 Does this patient have a surgical wound? NO” The Visit Note Report documents: “Indicate Integumentary Assessment Findings: no problems identified” on 12/07/2023, 12/09/2023, 12/12/2023, 12/14/2023, 12/16/2023, 12/19/2023, 12/21/2023, 12/23/2023, 12/26/2023, 12/28/2023, 12/30/2023, 01/02/2024, 01/09/2024, 01/11/2024, 01/16/2024, 01/18/2024, 01/20/2024, 01/23/2024, 01/25/2024, 01/27/2024, and 01/30/2024. The comprehensive assessment lacks documented evidence of an accurate reflection of patient’s status – no problems identified for integumentary, with diabetic and surgical wound from 12/05/2023 to 02/01/2024. On 02/28/2024 at 12:41pm, the Director of Quality Management/Compliance was interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0528. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • A Review Of All Current Medications

    The inspectors’ words, 471 words

    “A review of all current medications CFR(s): 484.55(c)(5) A review of all medications the patient is currently using in order to identify any potential adverse effects and drug reactions, including ineffective drug therapy, significant side effects, significant drug interactions, duplicate drug therapy, and noncompliance with drug therapy. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on observation, record reviews and staff interview, the agency failed to ensure that all patient’s medications were reviewed and accurately reflected in the patient’s plan of care. This was evident for one (1) of twenty - five (25) clinical records reviewed (Patient: #14). Failure to ensure that all patient’s medications are reviewed and accurately reflected in the patient’s plan of care, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: 1. Patient #14 has a Start of Care date of 02/11/2024 with diagnoses Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without Complications, Dementia, Pleural Effusion, Atelectasis, Essential (Primary) Hypertension, Atrial Fibrillation documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 02/11/2024 to 04/10/2024. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 02/11/2024 to 04/10/2024 and the Client Medication Report printed 02/25/2024 document the following medication regimen: Hiprex 1 gram tablet (genitourinary/urinary antibacterial therapy), 1 tablet, 2 times daily oral; Lasix 40 mg tablet (diuretic), 1 tablet daily oral. The RN (Registered Nurse) Start of Care comprehensive assessment dated 02/11/2024 documents: Inpatient (Hospital) Discharge Date 02/09/2024; Drug regimen review – “No issues found during review.” On 02/26/2024 at 1:43 PM, an observational home visit with the Skilled Nurse/Registered Nurse was conducted and the patient’s medications were reviewed. The surveyor observed the following prescribed medication that was not listed in the plan of care and the Client medication Report: Docusate take 1 capsule (100mg) by mouth three times per day as needed – prescription “written date 1/2/2024 (prior to the start of care).” The medications Hiprex and Lasix were not observed in the home. The skilled nurse and the patient’s caregiver were interviewed. The caregiver stated the patient “has not taken Hiprex for at least one month,” and Lasix was only to be taken “for one week” after the hospital discharge (on 02/09/2024). The Skilled nurse was interviewed and was not aware of the medication discrepancies. The Skilled Nurse stated the hospital discharge medication list was used to list medications in the plan of care. The Skilled Nurse did not review the medications the patient is currently taking in the home at the start of care. The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the Registered Nurse accurately identifying, reviewing and reconciling all medications the patient is currently taking in the home, as part of the comprehensive assessment. On 02/28/2024 at 2:30 PM, the Administrator, the Director of Patient Services, and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the finding.”

    Rule G0536. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Plan Of Care Must Include The Following

    The inspectors’ words, 2,446 words

    “Plan of care must include the following CFR(s): 484.60(a)(2)(i-xvi) The individualized plan of care must include the following: (i) All pertinent diagnoses; (ii) The patient’s mental, psychosocial, and cognitive status; (iii) The types of services, supplies, and equipment required; (iv) The frequency and duration of visits to be made; (v) Prognosis; (vi) Rehabilitation potential; (vii) Functional limitations; (viii) Activities permitted; (ix) Nutritional requirements; (x) All medications and treatments; (xi) Safety measures to protect against injury; (xii) A description of the patient’s risk for emergency department visits and hospital re-admission, and all necessary interventions to address the underlying risk factors. (xiii) Patient and caregiver education and training to facilitate timely discharge; (xiv) Patient-specific interventions and education; measurable outcomes and goals identified by the HHA and the patient; (xv) Information related to any advanced directives; and (xvi) Any additional items the HHA or physician or allowed practitioner may choose to include. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical records review and staff interview the agency failed to ensure each individualized plan of care includes all the required information. This was evident for eight (8) of twenty-five (25) clinical records reviewed (Patient: #1, #2, #5, #12, #14, #15, #19, and #20). Failure to ensure each individualized plan of care includes all the required information, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: 1. Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 02/08/2023 and a discharge date of 04/14/2023 with the following diagnoses “Unstageable Pressure Ulcer of Right Heel, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 02/08/2023 to 04/08/2023 and 04/09/2023 to 08/07/2023. The Visit Note Report dated 02/08/2023, 03/15/2023, 03/17/2023, 03/28/2023, and 04/14/2023 documents: “How frequent are blood sugars checked? 3X (three times) daily.” The plan of care lacks documented evidence of the frequency of blood sugar monitoring. On 02/27/2024 at 01:50pm, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Education were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 10/20/2022 and a discharge date of 10/10/2023 with the following diagnoses “Malignant Neoplasm of Unspecified Site of Left Female Breast; Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without Complications” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 08/16/2023 to 10/14/2023. The Visit Note Report dated 08/11/2023, 08/14/2023, and 10/10/2023 documents: “How frequent are blood sugars checked? BID (twice a day).” The plan of care lacks documented evidence of the frequency of blood sugar monitoring. On 02/27/2024 at 01:50pm, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Education were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 3. Patient #5 has a Start of Care date of 08/09/2023 and a discharge date of 02/01/2024 with the following diagnoses “Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Mild Non-proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy without Macular Edema, Peripheral Vascular Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 12/07/2023 to 02/04/2024. The Visit Note Report dated 12/05/2023 documents: “How frequent are blood sugars checked? daily.” The Visit Note Report dated 12/07/2023, 12/12/2023, 12/19/2023, 01/30/2024 and 02/01/2024 documents: “How frequent are blood sugars checked? BID (twice a day).” The plan of care lacks documented evidence of the frequency of blood sugar monitoring. On 02/27/2024 at 01:50pm, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Education were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. Patient #12 has a Start of Care date of 01/17/2024 with diagnoses Encounter for Surgical Aftercare Following Surgery on the Genitourinary System, Malignant Neoplasm of Prostate, Presence of Urogenital Implants documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 01/17/2024 to 03/16/2024. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 01/17/2024 to 03/16/2024 documents: Skilled Nurse for instructions/reinforcement of “blood glucose (sugar) testing.” The RN (Registered Nurse) Start of Care assessment dated 01/17/2024 documents: Endocrine hematopoietic assessment – Diabetes; blood sugar checked “daily.” The Skilled Nurse Visit Note dated 02/09/2024 documents the patient blood sugar is checked “2 time(s) daily.” The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care lacks documented evidence of a diabetes diagnosis and the frequency to monitor/test blood glucose levels. On 02/28/2024 at 2:30 PM, the Administrator. The Director of Patient Services, and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the finding. Patient #14 has a Start of Care date of 02/11/2024 with diagnoses Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without Complications, Dementia, Pleural Effusion, Atelectasis, Essential (Primary) Hypertension, Atrial Fibrillation documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 02/11/2024 to 04/10/2024. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 02/11/2024 to 04/10/2024 documents: Skilled Nurse for instructions/reinforcement of “blood glucose (sugar) testing.” The RN (Registered Nurse) Start of Care assessment dated 02/11/2024 documents: Blood sugar checked “daily.” The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care lacks documented evidence of the frequency to monitor/test blood glucose levels. On 02/28/2024 at 2:30 PM, the Administrator. The Director of Patient Services, and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the finding. Patient #15 has a Start of Care date of 12/14/2019 with diagnoses Essential (Primary) Hypertension, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without Complications documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 01/22/2024 to 03/21/2024. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 01/22/2024 to 03/21/2024 documents: Skilled Nurse for instructions/reinforcement of “blood glucose (sugar) testing.” The RN (Registered Nurse) Recertification assessment dated 01/17/2024 documents: “BS (Blood Sugar) monitored by MD (Medical Doctor).” The subsequent Skilled Nurse Visit Notes dated 01/31/2024 and 02/14/2024 documents the patient blood sugar is checked “PRN (as needed),” and the patient’s usual blood sugar reading is “130 (on 1/31/2024)” and “121 (on 2/14/2024).” During an observational home visit on 02/27/2024 at 11:00 AM, the Skilled Nurse was interviewed. The Skilled Nurse stated the “patient’s doctor monitors” the patient’s blood sugar level, and the patient does not perform blood sugar testing. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care lacks documented evidence of how the patient’s blood sugar level is monitor and the frequency blood sugar is monitored. On 02/28/2024 at 2:30 PM, the Administrator. The Director of Patient Services, and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the finding. Patient # 19 has a Start of Care date of 9/24/22 and discharge date of 1/21/23 with diagnoses “Aftercare following Joint Replacement Surgery, Difficulty in Walking, not Elsewhere Classified, Repeated Falls, Muscle Weakness (Generalized)” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 9/24/22 to 11/22/22. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 9/24/22 to 11/22/22 documents: Frequency / Duration of Visits: “SN (Skilled Nurse) For Post Op Care: HHA (Home Health Aide) 5 Day/4 hrs/Per Day- Mon to Fri (Five days for four hours per day- Monday through Friday).” The Plan of Care lacks documented evidence of the frequency and duration for the Skilled Nurse visits. The Plan of Care lacks documented evidence of the duration for the Home health aide visits. On 2/30/24 at 3:30PM the Director of Quality Measures, the Director of Patient Services, and the Administrator were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. Patient #20 has a Start of Care date of 11/28/2023 with diagnosis Non- Pressure Chronic Ulcer Other Part Right Lower Leg with Unspecified Severity, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Without Complications, Hyperglycemia, Unspecified, Morbid (Severe) Obesity due to Excess Calories, Anxiety Disorder, Unspecified, Difficulty walking, Not Elsewhere Classified” on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 1/27/24 to 3/26/24. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 1/27/24 to 3/26/24 documents: Skilled Nurse to assess/evaluate co-morbid conditions, report BS (Blood Sugar) 240. The Plan of Care lacks documented evidence for patient diabetic education, frequency for monitoring, reporting, and appropriate instructions for elevated blood glucose levels. The clinical lacks documented evidence that the Plan of Care is complete. On 2/29/24 at 3:30PM the Director of Quality Measures, the Director of Patient Services, and the Administrator were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 1. Patient # 19 has a Start of Care date of 9/24/22 and discharge date of 1/21/23 with diagnoses “Aftercare following Joint Replacement Surgery, Difficulty in Walking, not Elsewhere Classified, Repeated Falls, Muscle Weakness (Generalized)” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 9/24/22 to 11/22/22. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 9/24/22 to 11/22/22 documents: “Frequency / Duration of Visits: SN (Skilled Nurse) For Post Op Care: HHA (Home Health Aide) 5 Day/4 hrs/Per Day- Mon to Fri (Five days for four hours per day- Monday through Friday).” The Plan of Care lacks documented evidence of the frequency and duration for the Skilled Nurse visits. The Plan of Care lacks documented evidence of the duration for the Home health aide visits. On 2/30/24 at 3:30PM the Director of Quality Management/Compliance, the Director of Patient Services, and the Administrator were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #20 has a Start of Care date of 11/28/2023 with diagnosis Non- Pressure Chronic Ulcer Other Part Right Lower Leg with Unspecified Severity, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Without Complications, Hyperglycemia, Unspecified, Morbid (Severe) Obesity due to Excess Calories, Anxiety Disorder, Unspecified, Difficulty walking, Not Elsewhere Classified” on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 1/27/24 to 3/26/24. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 1/27/24 to 3/26/24 documents: “Skilled Nurse to assess/evaluate co-morbid conditions, report BS (Blood Sugar) 240.” The Plan of Care lacks documented evidence for patient diabetic education, and frequency for monitoring BS(Blood Sugar). The clinical lacks documented evidence that the Plan of Care is complete. On 2/29/24 at 3:30PM the Director of Quality Management/Compliance, the Director of Patient Services, and the Administrator were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 3. Patient #12 has a Start of Care date of 01/17/2024 with diagnoses Encounter for Surgical Aftercare Following Surgery on the Genitourinary System, Malignant Neoplasm of Prostate, Presence of Urogenital Implants documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 01/17/2024 to 03/16/2024. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 01/17/2024 to 03/16/2024 documents: “Skilled Nurse for instructions/reinforcement of “blood glucose (sugar) testing.” The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care lacks documented evidence of a diabetes diagnosis and the frequency to monitor/test blood glucose levels. On 02/28/2024 at 2:30 PM, the Administrator. The Director of Patient Services, and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the finding. 4. Patient #14 has a Start of Care date of 02/11/2024 with diagnoses Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without Complications, Dementia, Pleural Effusion, Atelectasis, Essential (Primary) Hypertension, Atrial Fibrillation documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 02/11/2024 to 04/10/2024. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 02/11/2024 to 04/10/2024 documents: Skilled Nurse for instructions/reinforcement of “blood glucose (sugar) testing.” The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care lacks documented evidence of the frequency to monitor/test blood glucose levels. On 02/28/2024 at 2:30 PM, the Administrator. The Director of Patient Services, and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the finding. 5. Patient #15 has a Start of Care date of 12/14/2019 with diagnoses Essential (Primary) Hypertension, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without Complications documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 01/22/2024 to 03/21/2024. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 01/22/2024 to 03/21/2024 documents: Skilled Nurse for instructions/reinforcement of “blood glucose (sugar) testing.” The RN (Registered Nurse) Recertification assessment dated 01/17/2024 documents: “BS (Blood Sugar) monitored by MD (Medical Doctor).” The subsequent Skilled Nurse Visit Notes dated 01/31/2024 and 02/14/2024 documents the patient blood sugar is checked “PRN (as needed),” and the patient’s usual blood sugar reading is “130 (on 1/31/2024)” and “121 (on 2/14/2024).” During an observational home visit on 02/27/2024 at 11:00 AM, the Skilled Nurse was interviewed. The Skilled Nurse stated the “patient’s doctor monitors” the patient’s blood sugar level, and the patient does not perform blood sugar testing. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care lacks documented evidence of how the patient’s blood sugar level is monitor and the frequency blood sugar is monitored. On 02/28/2024 at 2:30 PM, the Administrator. The Director of Patient Services, and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the finding. 6. Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 02/08/2023 and a discharge date of 04/14/2023 with the following diagnoses “Unstageable Pressure Ulcer of Right Heel, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 02/08/2023 to 04/08/2023 and 04/09/2023 to 08/07/2023. The Visit Note Report dated 02/08/2023, 03/15/2023, 03/17/2023, 03/28/2023, and 04/14/2023 documents: “How frequent are blood sugars checked? 3X (three times) daily.” The plan of care lacks documented evidence of the frequency of blood sugar monitoring. On 02/27/2024 at 01:50pm, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Education were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 7. Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 10/20/2022 and a discharge date of 10/10/2023 with the following diagnoses “Malignant Neoplasm of Unspecified Site of Left Female Breast; Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without Complications” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 08/16/2023 to 10/14/2023. The Visit Note Report dated 08/11/2023, 08/14/2023, and 10/10/2023 documents: “How frequent are blood sugars checked? BID (twice a day).” The plan of care lacks documented evidence of the frequency of blood sugar monitoring. On 02/27/2024 at 01:50pm, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Education were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 8. Patient #5 has a Start of Care date of 08/09/2023 and a discharge date of 02/01/2024 with the following diagnoses “Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Mild Non-proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy without Macular Edema, Peripheral Vascular Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 12/07/2023 to 02/04/2024. The Visit Note Report dated 12/05/2023 documents: “How frequent are blood sugars checked? daily.” The Visit Note Report dated 12/07/2023, 12/12/2023, 12/19/2023, 01/30/2024 and 02/01/2024 documents: “How frequent are blood sugars checked? BID (twice a day).” The plan of care lacks documented evidence of the frequency of blood sugar monitoring. On 02/27/2024 at 01:50pm, the Directors of Patient Services, and the Director of Education were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0574. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Only As Ordered By A Physician

    The inspectors’ words, 711 words

    “Only as ordered by a physician CFR(s): 484.60(b)(1) Drugs, services, and treatments are administered only as ordered by a physician or allowed practitioner. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical records review and staff interview, the agency failed to ensure that treatments are administered in accordance with physician orders. This was evident for four (4) of twenty-five (25) clinical records reviewed (Patient: #1, #2, #3, and #5). Failure to ensure that treatments are administered in accordance with physician orders, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: 1. Patient #1 has a Start of Care date of 02/08/2023 and a discharge date of 04/14/2023 with the following diagnoses “Unstageable Pressure Ulcer of Right Heel, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 02/08/2023 to 04/08/2023 and 04/09/2023 to 08/07/2023. The Order dated 03/15/2023 documents: “I am told by the patient’s caregiver that they were instructed to clean the ulcer with NS (normal saline), apply Triple Antibiotic ointment, and then cover with dressing.” There is no documented evidence of the site and frequency for the wound treatment. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 04/09/2023 to 08/07/2023 documents: “Skilled nurse to perform/teach pressure ulcer care to Right heel. Clean with NS (normal saline), apply triple Antibiotic Ointment, and then cover with dressing.” There is no documented evidence of a complete treatment order. On 02/27/2024 at 01:50pm, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Education were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 2. Patient #2 has a Start of Care date of 10/20/2022 and a discharge date of 10/10/2023 with the following diagnoses “Malignant Neoplasm of Unspecified Site of Left Female Breast; Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without Complications” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 08/16/2023 to 10/14/2023. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 08/16/2023 to 10/14/2023 documents: “Skilled Nurse to perform/teach wound care to – cleanse with NSS (normal saline solution), apply Puracol, cover with DSD (dry sterile dressing), and secure with border gauze, using clean/aseptic technique. Change dressing 3 X (times) week, and PRN (as needed).” There is no documented evidence of the site for the wound treatment. There is no documented evidence of a complete treatment order. On 02/27/2024 at 01:50pm, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Education were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 3. Patient #3 has a Start of Care date of 10/25/2023 and a discharge date of 12/04/2023 with the following diagnoses “Displaced Intertrochanteric Fractur Left Femur, Acute Respiratory Failure with Hypoxia, Bilateral Primary Osteoarthritis of Hip” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 10/25/2023 to 12/23/2023. The Order dated 11/9/2023 documents: Skin tear Right Lower Leg. Calcium Alginate dressing. There is no documented evidence of the frequency of dressing change. There is no documented evidence of a complete treatment order. On 02/27/2024 at 01:50pm, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Education were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings. 4. Patient #5 has a Start of Care date of 08/09/2023 and a discharge date of 02/01/2024 with the following diagnoses “Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Mild Non-proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy without Macular Edema, Peripheral Vascular Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 12/07/2023 to 02/04/2024. The Visit Note Report (Recertification with Skill) dated 12/05/2023 documents: “#5 Ant (anterior) Great toe, LT (left) Diab (diabetic) Ulcer - SN (skilled nurse) to perform wound care R. (right) foot, with NS (normal saline), pat dry, apply Santyl, cover with DSD (dry sterile dressing), wrap with Kerlix 2.” “#4 Med edge of Foot, Rt (right), Surgical - SN (skilled nurse) to perform wound care R. (right) foot, with NS (normal saline), pat dry, apply Santyl, cover with DSD (dry sterile dressing), wrap with Kerlix 2.” The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 12/07/2023 to 02/04/2024 lacks documented evidence of the order for wound care to left great toe and right edge of foot. On 02/27/2024 at 01:50pm, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Education were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0580. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Patient Medication Schedule/Instructions

    The inspectors’ words, 368 words

    “Patient medication schedule/instructions CFR(s): 484.60(e)(2) Patient medication schedule/instructions, including: medication name, dosage and frequency and which medications will be administered by HHA personnel and personnel acting on behalf of the HHA. This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical records review and staff interview, the agency failed to ensure all patients received information regarding the patient’s medication regimen. This was evident for one (1) of twenty-five (25) clinical records reviewed (Patient: #14). Failure to ensure all patients received information regarding the patient’s medication regimen, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: 1. Patient #14 has a Start of Care date of 02/11/2024 with diagnoses Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without Complications, Dementia, Pleural Effusion, Atelectasis, Essential (Primary) Hypertension, Atrial Fibrillation documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 02/11/2024 to 04/10/2024. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 02/11/2024 to 04/10/2024 documents: “Skilled Nurse for Administration of Tresiba (long-acting insulin) 12 Units SQ (Subcutaneous) Injection Daily.” On 02/26/2024 at 1:43 PM, an observational home visit with the Skilled Nurse was conducted and the admission booklet provided by the agency was reviewed. The section of the booklet for listing the patient’s medication was not filled in. The Skilled Nurse was interviewed and stated the patient has the hospital discharge summary (prior to the start of care) with a list of discharge medications. The Skilled nurse stated there is “no” medications list from the agency in the home. The hospital “Medication List at Discharge” dated 02/09/2024 lacks documented evidence of reconciling with the medications listed in the agency’s the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 02/11/2024 to 04/10/2024 and Client Medication Report/medication profile at the start of care. The hospital “Medication List at Discharge” does not document the long-acting insulin used to control the patient’s blood sugar level. There is no documented evidence of the agency preparing and providing to the patient written information regarding the patient’s medication regimen based on the medication review conducted at start of care. On 02/28/2024 at 2:30 PM, the Administrator, the Director of Patient Services, and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the finding.”

    Rule G0616. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Communication With Physicians

    The inspectors’ words, 557 words

    “Communication with physicians CFR(s): 484.75(b)(7) Communication with all physicians involved in the plan of care and other health care practitioners (as appropriate) related to the current plan of care; This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interview, the agency failed to ensure ongoing communication with physician is maintained. This was evident for two (2) of twenty-five (25) clinical records reviewed (Patient: #6, and #18). Failure to ensure ongoing communication with physician is maintained, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Findings Are: Patient #18 has a Start of Care date of 05/19/23 and discharge date of 7/13/23 with diagnoses “Essential (Primary) Hypertension, Unspecified Atrial Fibrillation, Unspecified Diastolic (Congestive) Heart Failure,” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 5/19/23 to 7/17/23. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for Certification Period 5/19/23 to 7/17/23 documents “HHA (Home Health Aide) Effective 05/21/2023: 4WK1, 5WK6 (Four times for one week, five times a week for six weeks). There is no documented evidence of the Home Health Aide providing services four times for the week starting 4/21 and no visit for 6/22/23. There is no documented evidence of the physician being notified of the missed visits. On 2/29/24 at 3:30pm the Administrator, the Director of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Measures/ Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation. 1.Patient#6 has a Start of Care date of 07/05/2021 and discharge date of 08/31/2021 with the following diagnoses “Spinal stenosis, cervical Region, Essential (Primary) Hypertension, Hyperlipidemia” documented on the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 07/05/2021 to 09/02/2021. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care for the Certification Period 07/05/2021 to 09/02/2021 documents: “Increased pain or ineffective pain control measures will be identified and promptly reported to the Physician.” The SN (Skilled Nurse) Visit dated 07/12/2021 documents:” Indicate Client’s Current pain Scale Rating: 8 Indicate Client’s Pain Scale Rating for Best/Least Intensity of Pain:2 Indicate Client’s Pain Scale Rating for Worst/Most Intensity of Pain:9” The OT (Occupational Therapy) Visit dated 07/30/2021 documents:” Indicate Client’s Current pain Scale Rating: 5 Indicate Client’s Pain Scale Rating for Best/Least Intensity of Pain:3 Indicate Client’s Pain Scale Rating for Worst/Most Intensity of Pain:7” The OT (Occupational Therapy) Visit dated 08/04/2021 documents:” Indicate Client’s Current pain Scale Rating:7 Indicate Client’s Pain Scale Rating for Best/Least Intensity of Pain:6 Indicate Client’s Pain Scale Rating for Worst/Most Intensity of Pain:9” The OT (Occupational Therapy) Visit dated 08/11/2021 documents:” Indicate Client’s Current pain Scale Rating:5 Indicate Client’s Pain Scale Rating for Best/Least Intensity of Pain:2 Indicate Client’s Pain Scale Rating for Worst/Most Intensity of Pain:7” The OT (Occupational Therapy) Visit dated 08/13/2021 documents:” Indicate Client’s Current pain Scale Rating:6 Indicate Client’s Pain Scale Rating for Best/Least Intensity of Pain:3 Indicate Client’s Pain Scale Rating for Worst/Most Intensity of Pain:7” The OT (Occupational Therapy) Visit dated 08/18/2021 documents:” Indicate Client’s Current pain Scale Rating:6 Indicate Client’s Pain Scale Rating for Best/Least Intensity of Pain:4 Indicate Client’s Pain Scale Rating for Worst/Most Intensity of Pain:8” The Clinical Record lacks documented evidence of the communication with the Physician regarding the patient’s pain. On 02/29/2024 at 03:30 pm, the Administrator, the Directors of Patient Services and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation.”

    Rule G0718. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Nursing Services Supervised By Rn

    The inspectors’ words, 264 words

    “Nursing services supervised by RN CFR(s): 484.75(c)(1) Nursing services are provided under the supervision of a registered nurse that meets the requirements of §484.115(k). This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical records review and staff interview the agency failed to ensure of an adequate supervision of the Licensed Practical Nurse. This was evident for one (1) of twenty-five (25) clinical records reviewed (Patient: #5). Failure to ensure of an adequate supervision of the Licensed Practical Nurse, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Finding Are: 1. Patient #5 has a Start of Care date of 08/09/2023 and a discharge date of 02/01/2024 with the following diagnoses “Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Mild Non-proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy without Macular Edema, Peripheral Vascular Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 12/07/2023 to 02/04/2024. The Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 12/07/2023 to 02/04/2024 documents: “12/5/23 Frequency: 3 times week SN (skilled nurse) to assess wound.” The clinical record documents LPN (licensed practical nurse) visits on 12/07/2023, 12/09/2023, 12/12/2023, 12/14/2023, 12/16/2023, 12/19/2023, 12/21/2023, 12/23/2023, 12/26/2023, 12/28/2023, 12/30/2023, 01/02/2024, 01/04/2024, 01/09/2024, 01/11/2024, 01/16/2024, 01/18/2024, 01/20/2024, 01/23/2024, 01/25/2024, 01/27/2024, 01/30/2024, and 02/01/2024. There is no documented evidence that the wound was assessed by the Registered Nurse from 12/07/2023 to 02/01/2024. There is no documented evidence of the licensed practical nurse being supervised by the Registered Nurse from 12/07/2023 to 02/01/2024. On 02/28/2024 at 02:30pm, the Administrator, the Directors of Patient Services, and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G0726. Element-level. From a complaint.

  • Required Items In Clinical Record

    The inspectors’ words, 571 words

    “Required items in clinical record CFR(s): 484.110(a)(1) The patient’s current comprehensive assessment, including all of the assessments from the most recent home health admission, clinical notes, plans of care, and physician or allowed practitioner orders; This Element is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical records review and staff interview the agency failed to document the patient’s consistent non-compliance including behavior issues, and refusal of the registered nurse assessment and wound care. This was evident for one (1) of twenty-five (25) clinical records reviewed (Patient: #5). Failure to document the patient’s consistent non-compliance including behavior issues, and refusal of the registered nurse assessment and wound care, has the potential for negative patient outcomes. The Finding Are: 1. Patient #5 has a Start of Care date of 08/09/2023 and a discharge date of 02/01/2024 with the following diagnoses “Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Mild Non-proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy without Macular Edema, Peripheral Vascular Disease” documented in the Home Health Certification and Plan of Care dated 12/07/2023 to 02/04/2024. The Email Print-out documents: 05/03/2023 “So this pt (patient) will not allow my nurse to come to do the recert (recertification) he was cursing me” “I told the Pt (patient) if we do not do a recert (recertification) all services will end and he CURSED ME. 11/07/2023 “Patient #5 is a very difficult case, no RN’S (registered nurse) in Bronx want to see him as he threw objects at them, cursed me and other nurses out multiple times on the phone, he only accepts the lpn (licensed practical nurse name) and these missed visits happen to be during his vacation.” 11/08/2023 “we are exhausted all our RNs (registered nurses) in Bronx who can see this pt (patient) for the wound assessments and recerts (recertification).” “patient is rude, aggressive and exhibits racial comments to our staff. Everyone is afraid of this patient!!!” The Email Print-Out thread documents: 02/03/2024 “I was unable to finish the visit.” “Everything was fine until the patient started saying that “(name) of nurse” would go today to his apartment for wound care. I stated that (name) would not go today because I was there to complete the recertification, and I was able to perform the wound care as always. On speakerphone, (name) told the patient that he would go to his apartment when I leave. (Shortly after, I called (name) to find out WHY he was COMING TO VISIT THE PATIENT WITHOUT authorization OR BEING ON THE SCHEDULE?). The conversation between (name) and the patient triggered the patient even more because I was against (name) going to the apartment if I was the nurse assigned to the case already. The patient started to yell at me, very loudly. Coursing (cursing) out, etc. I tried to explain the situation politely, trying to keep it professional.” “After he told me all the bad words that he possibly could, I decided to pick up my items and leave the bedroom in a rush. The patient started walking VERY WELL and followed me to the living room to keep yelling at me.” “HE WANTED TO HURT ME. This patient is a safety issue for Americare’s nurses.” The clinical record lacks documented evidence of the patient’s behavior and refusal with assessment or wound care from 11/08/2023 to 02/03/2024. On 02/28/2024 at 02:30pm, the Administrator, the Directors of Patient Services, and the Director of Quality Management/Compliance were interviewed and did not provide an explanation for the findings.”

    Rule G1012. Element-level. From a complaint.

All 10 inspections in the last three years
Inspections on record
DateVisitWhat the record says
Aug 4, 2026Complaint inspection2 deficiencies cited
Feb 26, 2026Complaint inspection2 deficiencies cited
Oct 17, 2025Complaint inspection2 deficiencies cited
Sep 16, 2025Complaint inspection2 deficiencies cited
Jul 22, 2025Complaint inspection1 deficiency cited
Jun 26, 2025Complaint inspection4 deficiencies cited
Jan 24, 2025Complaint inspection10 deficiencies cited
Nov 21, 2024Complaint inspection5 deficiencies cited
Sep 24, 2024Complaint inspection6 deficiencies cited
Mar 1, 2024Complaint and recertification inspection13 deficiencies cited

Is it certified?

  • Medicare-certified home health agency since Feb 1, 1993.
  • Ownership: proprietary (for profit).
  • No deficiency on record in the last three years.
Source:

CMS, Home Health Care Agencies. Released Oct 21, 2026. Updated quarterly.

CMS, QCOR home health inspection reports. Released Oct 20, 2026. Updated monthly.

Has anything been proven against it?

  • CMS doesn’t publish fines or other penalties for home health agencies, so none are shown.
  • 47 deficiencies cited in the last three years came from inspections that included a complaint investigation.
Source:

CMS, QCOR home health inspection reports. Released Oct 20, 2026. Updated monthly.

Who does the caring?

  • Offers nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, medical social services and home health aide services.
  • CMS doesn’t publish staffing levels for home health agencies.
Source:

CMS, Home Health Care Agencies. Released Oct 21, 2026. Updated quarterly.

Who owns it?

  • 8 owners or officers are people: David Helfgott (corporate officer); David Helfgott (corporate director); Faivish Pewzner (corporate officer); Faivish Pewzner (corporate director); Martin Kleinman (owns 5% or more directly); Martin Kleinman (corporate officer); Martin Kleinman (corporate director); Tsiona Eliyahu (managing employee (on the payroll)).
  • No private-equity firm among the owners CMS lists.
  • No real-estate investment trust among the owners CMS lists.
Source:

CMS, Home Health Agency All Owners and Home Health Agency Enrollments. Released Sep 29, 2026. Updated quarterly.

How do patients fare?

  • CMS rates its quality of patient care 5 of 5.
  • Patients rate it 1 of 5 in CMS’s patient survey (359 surveys completed): 67% rated it 9 or 10 out of 10, and 57% would definitely recommend it.
  • CMS compares it with the national rate: discharged to the community, the same; potentially preventable hospital stays, better; potentially preventable readmissions after discharge, worse.
Source:

CMS, Home Health Care Agencies and Home Health Patient Survey. Released Oct 21, 2026. Updated quarterly.

Ratings and measures, as published
MeasureRating
Quality of patient care ratingCMS star rating, 1 to 5 in half stars5 of 5
Patient survey ratingCMS star rating from its survey of the agency’s patients, 1 to 51 of 5
Discharged to the communityCMS’s risk-adjusted rate, compared with the national rate78.05% (same as the national rate)
Potentially preventable hospital staysCMS’s risk-adjusted rate, compared with the national rate9.50% (better than the national rate)
Potentially preventable readmissions after dischargeCMS’s risk-adjusted rate, compared with the national rate4.61% (worse than the national rate)

How does it compare nearby?

  • Of the 23 agencies CMS’s data show serving patients in ZIP code 11234, where this agency’s office is, 21 have a quality of patient care rating; the middle one is 3.5 of 5, and this one is rated 5 of 5.
Source:

CMS, Home Health ZIP Codes and Home Health Care Agencies. Released Oct 21, 2026. Updated quarterly.

What the record doesn’t say

  • CMS doesn’t publish fines or other penalties for home health agencies, so none are shown.
  • Only complaints that led to a citation appear; complaints that didn’t aren’t published.
  • QCOR says some of its home health reports are accurate or available only through May 19, 2021, because of a systems migration.
  • Many home health agencies are inspected by a private accrediting organisation instead of the state, and QCOR’s home health file doesn’t appear to include those inspections: no inspection on record here doesn’t mean none took place.

Sources

If you believe something here is wrong, a correction starts with the agency whose record this copies: CMS. CMS’s own record is on Care Compare. If Hearth Record copied something wrongly, it will fix it and log the correction publicly, with its date: how corrections work.

Source:

This copy of the record was made on Oct 24, 2026.

From the agency

The public record above comes first. Anything the agency adds will appear here, below it, and say who wrote it.

Replies

None. Replies aren’t open yet. When they open, the agency will be able to answer any finding for free, and the reply will show beside that finding, unedited and dated.

Paid listing

None. Paid listings aren’t open yet. When they open, anything paid for will say “Paid by the agency”, and paying will never change a finding, a rating or the order of results.

How to read a record

Four things every record does, shown on an example record made up for this guide.

An example record, made up for this guide

An example nursing home

Made up for this guide: no real place is shown

Not fully inspected in over two years (CMS flag)

11 health citations at the latest inspection cycle

The state average is 14.3.

Source:

CMS, State and US Averages and Health Deficiencies. Released Oct 28, 2026. Updated monthly.

From the homeNone yet. Replies and paid listings aren’t open, and when they open they will sit here, below the record.

1 of 4

Every fact names its source.

Who published it, when, and how often it changes sit beside each fact, with a link to the agency’s own file.

Sign in

A free account keeps your watch list, shortlists, comparisons and saved searches on every device, and can email you when something you watch changes. Browsing never needs one.