Grace Hospice and Palliative Care LLC

“Based on record review and staff interviews it was determined the hospice agency failed to develop and maintain an emergency preparedness plan that was reviewed, and updated at least every 2 years and it was based on and include a documented, facility-based and community-based risk assessment, utilizing an all-hazards approach that included strategies for addressing emergency events identified by the risk assessment, including the management of the consequences of power failures, natural disasters, and other emergencies that would affect the hospice’s ability to provide care. This deficient practice has the potential that the agency as a whole is at risk for not being prepared in the event of an emergency placing the health and safety of both employees, and the vulnerable population they serve at risk for negative outcomes and potential harm. Findings include:A review of Policy 4-090.1, titled.” NATURAL DISASTERS/EMERGENCIES”, revealed:”....PURPOSE To ensure patients and caregivers are prepared to respond to emergencies and natural disasters....” A review of a document titled, “HIPAA ADMINISTRATIVE RISK and VULNERABILIITY ANALYSIS”, revealed:”...Date of analysis: 1/1/22 Office/Location : Grace Hospice....” No further additional documentation for 2023, 2024, 2025, or 2026 were present. A request was made for 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026 Hazard Vulnerability Assessment(HVA)s. No additional documentation could be provided. In an interview conducted on April 15, 2026, with Employee #1, they confirmed the Emergency Binder presented had no documentation of the HVA since 2022. In an interview conducted on April 15, 2026, with Employee #2, they confirmed the HVA had not been updated since 2022. No additional documentation could be provided.”

“Based on record review and staff interviews it was determined the hospice failed to ensure that the communication plan included all of the names and contact information for hospice employees, entities providing services under arrangement, patients’ physicians, and other hospices. This deficient practice has the potential that delayed care during emergencies or routine transition could lead to to missed treatments, medication errors, or a failure to coordinate essential services for the patient posing the risk for negative outcomes to a vulnerable population. Findings include: A review of the Emergency binder presented on April 14, 2026, revealed a document titled, “GRACE HOSPICE CLINICAL CALL SCHEDULE”, for the dates of January 2025, February 2025, March 2025, April 2025, May 2025, June 2025, July 2025, August 2025, September 2025, October 2025, November 2025, and December 2025. No current list of personnel, entities providing services under arrangement, patients physicians, or other hospices were listed. A request was made for the aforementioned missing information. No additional information was provided. In an interview conducted on April 14, 2026, with Employee #1, they verified the information was outdated and no updated information for 2026 to include the personnel. patient physicians, entities providing services under arrangement, and other hospices were present.”

“Based on record review, observation, and staff interviews, it was determined the hospice agency failed to inform and distribute written information to the patient concerning its policies on advance directives, including a description of applicable State law. This deficient practice has the potential that patients and patient representatives are not making informed decisions based on the most current and accurate information posing the risk for negative and unwanted outcomes. Findings include: A review of Policy No. 1-010.1, titled” REGULATORY COMPLIANCE”, revealed:”...PURPOSE To ensure the organization maintains compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing hospice operations...POLICY The organization will operate in compliance with regulatory requirements, including but not limited to: 1. Medicare Conditions of Participation... Organizational policies and procedures consistent with regulatory requirements... The Governing Body is responsible for oversight of regulatory compliance and ensures that systems are in place to monitor, evaluate, and maintain compliance across all hospice operations and locations....” A review of Policy No. 2-002.1, titled” PATIENT BILL OF RIGHTS”, revealed:”...PURPOSE To encourage awareness of patient rights, to provide guidelines to assist patients making decisions regarding care, and to support active participation in care planning. POLICY Each patient and/or patient representative will be an active, informed participant in his/her plan of care. To ensure this process, the patient will be empowered with certain rights as described. The rights contained within this policy include the basic rights of the patient. Additional rights may be required by program specific standards and will be found in program specific policy...PROCEDURE 1. The Patient Bill of Rights statement defines the right of the patient to: A. Exercise and understand his or her rights and responsibilities as a patient of Uplift Hospice and not to be subject to discrimination or reprisal for exercising these rights...2. Upon admission, a hospice representative will provide each patient or his/her representative with a written copy of the Patient Bill of Rights. 3. The Patient Bill of Rights will be explained (verbally/orally) and distributed to the patient or patient representative prior to the initiation of organization services....” A RR of Patient #17’s medical record revealed and admission date of 03/12/2026. A document titled,” CONSENT FOR TREATMENT AND AUTHORIZATION FOR PAYMENT TO PROVIDER”, revealed:”... “Uplift Hospice... Consent for Treatment and Authorization for Payment to Provider: I have been fully informed of Uplift Hospice’s assessment and evaluation of my hospice needs. I hereby give my permission for authorized personnel of Uplift Hospice to perform all necessary procedures and treatments ... Advance Directives: I have received state specific information regarding Advance Directives and a copy of the agency policies concerning Advance Directives... Do Not Resuscitate... Patient Rights/Emergency Plan/Complaint Procedure: Prior to receiving care, I have been informed both orally and in writing in language I can understand of Patient Rights, Uplift Hospice’s Emergency Plan, and Grievance/Complaint Procedure. I was given an opportunity to ask questions. I understand that if I have any complaints or problems concerning my care, I can call Uplift Hospice’s administrator at the appropriate phone number: 480-350-7754.... “ A document titled,” HOSPICE ELECTION OF BENEFIT STATEMENT” page 4 of 6, revealed:”...Uplift Hospice.... I, [name redacted] acknowledge the above information and choose Uplift Hospice to provide services under the Medicare Hospice Benefit with a start of care date effective: 03/12/2026.... “ The name of Patient #14, was not the patient on the election benefit. A review of pages 5 and 6 of 6 had the Uplift Hospice Logo as well and revealed:”... Acknowledgment of Non-Covered Items, Services, and Drugs Not Related to My Terminal Illness and Related Conditions... not being covered by Uplift Hospice. Signing this notification (or its updates) is only acknowledgement of receipt of this Notification (or its updates) and not necessarily agreement with the determinations of Uplift Hospice. A review of a document titled, “ACKNOWLEDGEMENT”, revealed:”... NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE....” A review of a document titled,” Management and Disposal of Controlled Drugs for Patients and Families”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...*Note: Revised June 2019 New Life Hospice, LLC dba Uplift Hospice, LLC Policies and Procedures Manual (Revised June 2019)....” A review of a document titled,” OPIOID AND PSYCHOACTIVE MEDICATION CONSENT” revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE....” A review of a document titled, “Medication Disposal”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE. LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...New Life Hospice, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE Policies and Procedures Manual (Revised June 2019)....” A review of a document titled,” MEDICAL INFORMATION RELEASE”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...Admit Date: 3/31/2026...Patient Authorization for Release of Information Permission is granted for the release of the above requested information to New Life Hospice... 03/12/2026...Please return this requested information via mail/fax to: UPLIFT HOSPICE 8777 E Via de Ventura #280 Scottsdale, AZ, 85258 Office: 480 350-7554 Fax: 888-509-0063....” A document titled “PREHOSPITAL MEDICAL CARE DIRECTIVE (DO NOT RESUSCITATE)” revealed:”...1. My Directive and my Signature: Date 3/11/2026...2. Information About My Doctor and Hospice...Physician: [NAME REDACTED] Telephone: 480-350-7554 Hospice Program...Uplift Hospice...3. Signature of Doctor of Health care Provider...3/11/20264. Signature if Witness to My Directive...Date 3/11/2026....” The DNR form stated “Updated 03/18 Office of the Attorney General of Arizona, Mark Brnovich....” All of the aforementioned documents were signed by the person appointed for Patient #14, Son, and the reason stated:”... Altered mentation....” Patient expired 03/22/2026. No documentation that any physician was notified was documented in the medical record. In an interview conducted on April 15, 2026, with Employee #3, during medical record review, they verified the consent forms had multiple names on them. For Patient #17, they acknowledged the State of Arizona Advance Directive Do Not Resuscitate form had the incorrect information and they were unable to identify who the current Attorney General was for the State of Arizona. They further confirmed the physician that signed the patients DNR form was not an employee of Grace Hospice. The physician works at Uplift Hospice located in Scottsdale, Arizona, and was not the elected by the patient or patient representative as their physician. No personnel file could be supplied for the physician that signed. On April 15, 2026, this deficiency was observed as being corrected onsite.”

“Based on record review, observation, and staff interviews, it was determined the hospice agency failed notify the patient and patient representatives with the correct information about the services covered under the hospice benefit and the correct hospice name. This deficient practice has the potential that the patient and patients representatives are not making informed decisions posing the risk for exploitation of a vulnerable population. Findings include: A review of Policy No. 1-010.1, titled” REGULATORY COMPLIANCE”, revealed:”...PURPOSE To ensure the organization maintains compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing hospice operations...POLICY The organization will operate in compliance with regulatory requirements, including but not limited to: 1. Medicare Conditions of Participation... Organizational policies and procedures consistent with regulatory requirements... The Governing Body is responsible for oversight of regulatory compliance and ensures that systems are in place to monitor, evaluate, and maintain compliance across all hospice operations and locations....” A review of Policy No. 2-002.1, titled” PATIENT BILL OF RIGHTS”, revealed:”...PURPOSE To encourage awareness of patient rights, to provide guidelines to assist patients making decisions regarding care, and to support active participation in care planning. POLICY Each patient and/or patient representative will be an active, informed participant in his/her plan of care. To ensure this process, the patient will be empowered with certain rights as described. The rights contained within this policy include the basic rights of the patient. Additional rights may be required by program specific standards and will be found in program specific policy...PROCEDURE 1. The Patient Bill of Rights statement defines the right of the patient to: A. Exercise and understand his or her rights and responsibilities as a patient of Uplift Hospice and not to be subject to discrimination or reprisal for exercising these rights...2. Upon admission, a hospice representative will provide each patient or his/her representative with a written copy of the Patient Bill of Rights. 3. The Patient Bill of Rights will be explained (verbally/orally) and distributed to the patient or patient representative prior to the initiation of organization services....” A RR of Patient #4’s medical record revealed and admission date of 04/07/2026. A document titled,” CONSENT FOR TREATMENT AND AUTHORIZATION FOR PAYMENT TO PROVIDER”, revealed:”... “Uplift Hospice...Patient Rights/Emergency Plan/Complaint Procedure: Prior to receiving care, I have been informed both orally and in writing in language I can understand of Patient Rights, Uplift Hospice’s Emergency Plan, and Grievance/Complaint Procedure. I was given an opportunity to ask questions. I understand that if I have any complaints or problems concerning my care, I can call Uplift Hospice’s administrator at the appropriate phone number: 480-350-7754.... “ A document titled,” HOSPICE ELECTION STATEMENT”, revealed:”...I [NAME REDACTED], acknowledge the above information and choose Uplift Hospice to provide services under the Medicare Hospice Benefit with a start of care date effective: 04/07/2026....” A review of a document titled, “ACKNOWLEDGEMENT”, revealed:”... NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE....” A review of a document titled,” Management and Disposal of Controlled Drugs for Patients and Families”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...*Note: Revised June 2019 New Life Hospice, LLC dba Uplift Hospice, LLC Policies and Procedures Manual (Revised June 2019)....” A review of a document titled,” OPIOID AND PSYCHOACTIVE MEDICATION CONSENT” revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE....” A review of a document titled, “Medication Disposal”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE. LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...New Life Hospice, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE Policies and Procedures Manual (Revised June 2019)....” A review of a document titled,” MEDICAL INFORMATION RELEASE”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...Admit Date: 4/07/2026...Patient Authorization for Release of Information Permission is granted for the release of the above requested information to New Life Hospice... 04/07/2026...Please return this requested information via mail/fax to: UPLIFT HOSPICE 8777 E Via de Ventura #280 Scottsdale, AZ, 85258 Office: 480 350-7554 Fax: 888-509-0063....” All of the aforementioned documents were signed by Patient #4. A RR of Patient #14’s medical record revealed and admission date of 03/31/2026. A document titled,” CONSENT FOR TREATMENT AND AUTHORIZATION FOR PAYMENT TO PROVIDER”, revealed:”... “Uplift Hospice...Patient Rights/Emergency Plan/Complaint Procedure: Prior to receiving care, I have been informed both orally and in writing in language I can understand of Patient Rights, Uplift Hospice’s Emergency Plan, and Grievance/Complaint Procedure. I was given an opportunity to ask questions. I understand that if I have any complaints or problems concerning my care, I can call Uplift Hospice’s administrator at the appropriate phone number: 480-350-7754.... “ A document titled,” HOSPICE ELECTION OF BENEFIT STATEMENT” page 4 of 6, revealed:”...Uplift Hospice.... I, [name redacted] acknowledge the above information and choose Uplift Hospice to provide services under the Medicare Hospice Benefit with a start of care date effective: 03/31/2026.... “ The name of Patient #14, was not the patient on the election benefit. The form had the patient representative as being the patient. A review of pages 5 and 6 of 6 had the Uplift Hospice Logo as well and revealed:”... Acknowledgment of Non-Covered Items, Services, and Drugs Not Related to My Terminal Illness and Related Conditions... not being covered by Uplift Hospice. Signing this notification (or its updates) is only acknowledgement of receipt of this Notification (or its updates) and not necessarily agreement with the determinations of Uplift Hospice. A review of a document titled, “ACKNOWLEDGEMENT”, revealed:”... NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE....” A review of a document titled,” Management and Disposal of Controlled Drugs for Patients and Families”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...*Note: Revised June 2019 New Life Hospice, LLC dba Uplift Hospice, LLC Policies and Procedures Manual (Revised June 2019)....” A review of a document titled,” OPIOID AND PSYCHOACTIVE MEDICATION CONSENT” revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE....” A review of a document titled, “Medication Disposal”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE. LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...New Life Hospice, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE Policies and Procedures Manual (Revised June 2019)....” A review of a document titled,” MEDICAL INFORMATION RELEASE”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...Admit Date: 03/31/2026...Patient Authorization for Release of Information Permission is granted for the release of the above requested information to New Life Hospice... 3/31/2026...Please return this requested information via mail/fax to: UPLIFT HOSPICE 8777 E Via de Ventura #280 Scottsdale, AZ, 85258 Office: 480 350-7554 Fax: 888-509-0063....” All of the aforementioned documents were signed by the person appointed for Patient #14, grandson, as the reason stated:”... Altered mental status....” A RR of Patient #17’s medical record revealed and admission date of 03/12/2026. A document titled,” CONSENT FOR TREATMENT AND AUTHORIZATION FOR PAYMENT TO PROVIDER”, revealed:”... “Uplift Hospice... Consent for Treatment and Authorization for Payment to Provider: I have been fully informed of Uplift Hospice’s assessment and evaluation of my hospice needs. I hereby give my permission for authorized personnel of Uplift Hospice to perform all necessary procedures and treatments ... Advance Directives: I have received state specific information regarding Advance Directives and a copy of the agency policies concerning Advance Directives... Do Not Resuscitate... Patient Rights/Emergency Plan/Complaint Procedure: Prior to receiving care, I have been informed both orally and in writing in language I can understand of Patient Rights, Uplift Hospice’s Emergency Plan, and Grievance/Complaint Procedure. I was given an opportunity to ask questions. I understand that if I have any complaints or problems concerning my care, I can call Uplift Hospice’s administrator at the appropriate phone number: 480-350-7754.... “ A document titled,” HOSPICE ELECTION OF BENEFIT STATEMENT” page 4 of 6, revealed:”...Uplift Hospice.... I, [name redacted] acknowledge the above information and choose Uplift Hospice to provide services under the Medicare Hospice Benefit with a start of care date effective: 03/12/2026.... “ The name of Patient #14, was not the patient on the election benefit. A review of pages 5 and 6 of 6 had the Uplift Hospice Logo as well and revealed:”... Acknowledgment of Non-Covered Items, Services, and Drugs Not Related to My Terminal Illness and Related Conditions... not being covered by Uplift Hospice. Signing this notification (or its updates) is only acknowledgement of receipt of this Notification (or its updates) and not necessarily agreement with the determinations of Uplift Hospice. A review of a document titled, “ACKNOWLEDGEMENT”, revealed:”... NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE....” A review of a document titled,” Management and Disposal of Controlled Drugs for Patients and Families”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...*Note: Revised June 2019 New Life Hospice, LLC dba Uplift Hospice, LLC Policies and Procedures Manual (Revised June 2019)....” A review of a document titled,” OPIOID AND PSYCHOACTIVE MEDICATION CONSENT” revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE....” A review of a document titled, “Medication Disposal”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE. LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...New Life Hospice, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE Policies and Procedures Manual (Revised June 2019)....” A review of a document titled,” MEDICAL INFORMATION RELEASE”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...Admit Date: 4/07/2026...Patient Authorization for Release of Information Permission is granted for the release of the above requested information to New Life Hospice... 03/12/2026...Please return this requested information via mail/fax to: UPLIFT HOSPICE 8777 E Via de Ventura #280 Scottsdale, AZ, 85258 Office: 480 350-7554 Fax: 888-509-0063....” A document titled “PREHOSPITAL MEDICAL CARE DIRECTIVE (DO NOT RESUSCITATE)” revealed:”...1. My Directive and my Signature: Date 3/11/2026...2. Information About My Doctor and Hospice...Physician: [NAME REDACTED] Telephone: 480-350-7554 Hospice Program...Uplift Hospice...3. Signature of Doctor of Health care Provider...3/11/20264. Signature if Witness to My Directive...Date 3/11/2026....” The DNR form stated “Updated 03/18 Office of the Attorney General of Arizona, Mark Brnovich....” All of the aforementioned documents were signed by the person appointed for Patient #14, Son, and the reason stated:”... Altered mentation....” In an interview conducted on April 15, 2026, with Employee #3, during medical record review, they verified the consent forms had multiple entities/company names names on them. A review of the blue patient admission binder presented on April 14, 2026, stated on the cover: “Grace Hospice powered by UPLIFT HOSPICE....” Consent forms had various names: Grace Hospice powered by UPLIFT HOSPICE, Grace Hospice dba Uplift Hospice, Grace Hospice and Palliative Care, LLC dba Uplift Hospice, and Grace Hospice....” In an interview conducted on April 15, 2026, with Employee #2, they confirmed the consent forms for Patient #4, had Uplift Hospice, New Life Hospice, and did not have any documentation of Grace Hospice Hospice and Palliative Care. No additional information could be provided. In an interview conducted on April 16, 2026, with Employee #1, they confirmed the consent forms for Patients #4, 14, and 17, had Uplift Hospice, New Life Hospice, and did not have any documentation of Grace Hospice Hospice and Palliative Care. No additional information could be provided.”

“Based on record review and staff interviews, it was determined, that the hospice failed to ensure that each patient’s record must included signed copies of the notice of patient rights. This deficient practice has the potential that patients and patients representatives are not being afforded their rights posing a risk for patient rights violations. Findings include: A review of Policy No. 1-010.1, titled” REGULATORY COMPLIANCE”, revealed:”...PURPOSE To ensure the organization maintains compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing hospice operations...POLICY The organization will operate in compliance with regulatory requirements, including but not limited to: 1. Medicare Conditions of Participation... Organizational policies and procedures consistent with regulatory requirements... The Governing Body is responsible for oversight of regulatory compliance and ensures that systems are in place to monitor, evaluate, and maintain compliance across all hospice operations and locations....” A review of Policy No. 2-002.1, titled” PATIENT BILL OF RIGHTS”, revealed:”...PURPOSE To encourage awareness of patient rights, to provide guidelines to assist patients making decisions regarding care, and to support active participation in care planning. POLICY Each patient and/or patient representative will be an active, informed participant in his/her plan of care. To ensure this process, the patient will be empowered with certain rights as described. The rights contained within this policy include the basic rights of the patient. Additional rights may be required by program specific standards and will be found in program specific policy...PROCEDURE 1. The Patient Bill of Rights statement defines the right of the patient to: A. Exercise and understand his or her rights and responsibilities as a patient of Uplift Hospice and not to be subject to discrimination or reprisal for exercising these rights...2. Upon admission, a hospice representative will provide each patient or his/her representative with a written copy of the Patient Bill of Rights. 3. The Patient Bill of Rights will be explained (verbally/orally) and distributed to the patient or patient representative prior to the initiation of organization services....” A RR of Patient #4’s medical record revealed and admission date of 04/07/2026. A document titled,” CONSENT FOR TREATMENT AND AUTHORIZATION FOR PAYMENT TO PROVIDER”, revealed:”... “Uplift Hospice...Patient Rights/Emergency Plan/Complaint Procedure: Prior to receiving care, I have been informed both orally and in writing in language I can understand of Patient Rights, Uplift Hospice’s Emergency Plan, and Grievance/Complaint Procedure. I was given an opportunity to ask questions. I understand that if I have any complaints or problems concerning my care, I can call Uplift Hospice’s administrator at the appropriate phone number: 480-350-7754.... “ A document titled,” HOSPICE ELECTION STATEMENT”, revealed:”...I [NAME REDACTED], acknowledge the above information and choose Uplift Hospice to provide services under the Medicare Hospice Benefit with a start of care date effective: 04/07/2026....” A review of a document titled, “ACKNOWLEDGEMENT”, revealed:”... NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE....” A review of a document titled,” Management and Disposal of Controlled Drugs for Patients and Families”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...*Note: Revised June 2019 New Life Hospice, LLC dba Uplift Hospice, LLC Policies and Procedures Manual (Revised June 2019)....” A review of a document titled,” OPIOID AND PSYCHOACTIVE MEDICATION CONSENT” revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE....” A review of a document titled, “Medication Disposal”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE. LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...New Life Hospice, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE Policies and Procedures Manual (Revised June 2019)....” A review of a document titled,” MEDICAL INFORMATION RELEASE”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...Admit Date: 4/07/2026...Patient Authorization for Release of Information Permission is granted for the release of the above requested information to New Life Hospice... 04/07/2026...Please return this requested information via mail/fax to: UPLIFT HOSPICE 8777 E Via de Ventura #280 Scottsdale, AZ, 85258 Office: 480 350-7554 Fax: 888-509-0063....” All of the aforementioned documents were signed by Patient #4. A RR of Patient #14’s medical record revealed and admission date of 03/31/2026. A document titled,” CONSENT FOR TREATMENT AND AUTHORIZATION FOR PAYMENT TO PROVIDER”, revealed:”... “Uplift Hospice...Patient Rights/Emergency Plan/Complaint Procedure: Prior to receiving care, I have been informed both orally and in writing in language I can understand of Patient Rights, Uplift Hospice’s Emergency Plan, and Grievance/Complaint Procedure. I was given an opportunity to ask questions. I understand that if I have any complaints or problems concerning my care, I can call Uplift Hospice’s administrator at the appropriate phone number: 480-350-7754.... “ A document titled,” HOSPICE ELECTION OF BENEFIT STATEMENT” page 4 of 6, revealed:”...Uplift Hospice.... I, [name redacted] acknowledge the above information and choose Uplift Hospice to provide services under the Medicare Hospice Benefit with a start of care date effective: 03/31/2026.... “ The name of Patient #14, was not the patient on the election benefit. The form had the patient representative as being the patient. A review of pages 5 and 6 of 6 had the Uplift Hospice Logo as well and revealed:”... Acknowledgment of Non-Covered Items, Services, and Drugs Not Related to My Terminal Illness and Related Conditions... not being covered by Uplift Hospice. Signing this notification (or its updates) is only acknowledgement of receipt of this Notification (or its updates) and not necessarily agreement with the determinations of Uplift Hospice. A review of a document titled, “ACKNOWLEDGEMENT”, revealed:”... NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE....” A review of a document titled,” Management and Disposal of Controlled Drugs for Patients and Families”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...*Note: Revised June 2019 New Life Hospice, LLC dba Uplift Hospice, LLC Policies and Procedures Manual (Revised June 2019)....” A review of a document titled,” OPIOID AND PSYCHOACTIVE MEDICATION CONSENT” revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE....” A review of a document titled, “Medication Disposal”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE. LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...New Life Hospice, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE Policies and Procedures Manual (Revised June 2019)....” A review of a document titled,” MEDICAL INFORMATION RELEASE”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...Admit Date: 03/31/2026...Patient Authorization for Release of Information Permission is granted for the release of the above requested information to New Life Hospice... 03/31/2026...Please return this requested information via mail/fax to: UPLIFT HOSPICE 8777 E Via de Ventura #280 Scottsdale, AZ, 85258 Office: 480 350-7554 Fax: 888-509-0063....” All of the aforementioned documents were signed by the person appointed for Patient #14, grandson, as the reason stated:”... Altered mental status....” A RR of Patient #17’s medical record revealed and admission date of 03/12/2026. A document titled,” CONSENT FOR TREATMENT AND AUTHORIZATION FOR PAYMENT TO PROVIDER”, revealed:”... “Uplift Hospice... Consent for Treatment and Authorization for Payment to Provider: I have been fully informed of Uplift Hospice’s assessment and evaluation of my hospice needs. I hereby give my permission for authorized personnel of Uplift Hospice to perform all necessary procedures and treatments ... Advance Directives: I have received state specific information regarding Advance Directives and a copy of the agency policies concerning Advance Directives... Do Not Resuscitate... Patient Rights/Emergency Plan/Complaint Procedure: Prior to receiving care, I have been informed both orally and in writing in language I can understand of Patient Rights, Uplift Hospice’s Emergency Plan, and Grievance/Complaint Procedure. I was given an opportunity to ask questions. I understand that if I have any complaints or problems concerning my care, I can call Uplift Hospice’s administrator at the appropriate phone number: 480-350-7754.... “ A document titled,” HOSPICE ELECTION OF BENEFIT STATEMENT” page 4 of 6, revealed:”...Uplift Hospice.... I, [name redacted] acknowledge the above information and choose Uplift Hospice to provide services under the Medicare Hospice Benefit with a start of care date effective: 03/12/2026.... “ The name of Patient #14, was not the patient on the election benefit. A review of pages 5 and 6 of 6 had the Uplift Hospice Logo as well and revealed:”... Acknowledgment of Non-Covered Items, Services, and Drugs Not Related to My Terminal Illness and Related Conditions... not being covered by Uplift Hospice. Signing this notification (or its updates) is only acknowledgement of receipt of this Notification (or its updates) and not necessarily agreement with the determinations of Uplift Hospice. A review of a document titled, “ACKNOWLEDGEMENT”, revealed:”... NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE....” A review of a document titled,” Management and Disposal of Controlled Drugs for Patients and Families”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...*Note: Revised June 2019 New Life Hospice, LLC dba Uplift Hospice, LLC Policies and Procedures Manual (Revised June 2019)....” A review of a document titled,” OPIOID AND PSYCHOACTIVE MEDICATION CONSENT” revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE....” A review of a document titled, “Medication Disposal”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE. LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...New Life Hospice, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE Policies and Procedures Manual (Revised June 2019)....” A review of a document titled,” MEDICAL INFORMATION RELEASE”, revealed:”...NEW LIFE HOSPICE, LLC dba UPLIFT HOSPICE...Admit Date: 4/07/2026...Patient Authorization for Release of Information Permission is granted for the release of the above requested information to New Life Hospice... 03/12/2026...Please return this requested information via mail/fax to: UPLIFT HOSPICE 8777 E Via de Ventura #280 Scottsdale, AZ, 85258 Office: 480 350-7554 Fax: 888-509-0063....” A document titled “PREHOSPITAL MEDICAL CARE DIRECTIVE (DO NOT RESUSCITATE)” revealed:”...1. My Directive and my Signature: Date 3/11/2026...2. Information About My Doctor and Hospice...Physician: [NAME REDACTED] Telephone: 480-350-7554 Hospice Program...Uplift Hospice...3. Signature of Doctor of Health care Provider...3/11/20264. Signature if Witness to My Directive...Date 3/11/2026....” The DNR form stated “Updated 03/18 Office of the Attorney General of Arizona, Mark Brnovich....” All of the aforementioned documents were signed by the person appointed for Patient #14, Son, and the reason stated:”... Altered mentation....” Patient expired 03/22/2026. In an interview conducted on April 15, 2026, with Employee #3, during medical record review, they verified the consent forms had multiple names/entity companies on them. In an interview conducted on April 15, 2026, with Employee #2, they confirmed the consent forms for Patient #4, had Uplift Hospice, New Life Hospice, and did not have any documentation of Grace Hospice Hospice and Palliative Care. No additional information could be provided. In an interview conducted on April 16, 2026, with Employee #1, they confirmed the consent forms for Patients #4, 14, and 17, had Uplift Hospice, New Life Hospice, and did not have any documentation of Grace Hospice Hospice and Palliative Care. No additional information could be provided.”

“Based on record review and staff interview, it was determined the hospice failed to provide the hospice philosophy, including hospice policies and procedures regarding methods of comfort, pain control, symptom management, as well as principles about death and dying, individual responses to death, patient rights, appropriate forms, and record keeping requirements to the in-patient units, and skilled nursing facilities used for respite and general in-patient care. This deficient practice has the potential that staff providing care to the hospice patient and a lack of understanding regarding hospice’s specific pain and comfort protocols can lead to unmanaged distress posing the risk for negative outcomes. Findings include: A review of Policy No. 1-010.1, titled” REGULATORY COMPLIANCE”, revealed:”...PURPOSE To ensure th organization maintains compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing hospice operations...POLICY The organization will operate in compliance with regulatory requirements, including but not limited to: 1. Medicare Conditions of Participation... Organizational policies and procedures consistent with regulatory requirements... The Governing Body is responsible for oversight of regulatory compliance and ensures that systems are in place to monitor, evaluate, and maintain compliance across all hospice operations and locations....” A review of Policy No. 1-023.1, titled,” WRITTEN AGREEMENTS FOR CONTRACTED SERVICES”, revealed:”...POLICY ...When the organization provides care and services through another source, the patients are entitled to the same level of performance from that source as form the organization itself...PROCEDURE...2....C. Contractor assures that all personnel providing care have the education, training, and qualifications specified by Grace Hospice....” A review of Policy No. 4-014.1, titled” INPATIENT SERVICES” revealed:”...PURPOSE To establish guidelines for providing inpatient services. POLICY...H...6. Hospice will provide appropriate training and education for inpatient personnel....” A request was made for the education provided to the in-patent unit and respite care facility that the hospice contracts with. No documentation could be provided. In an interview conducted on April 15, 2026, with Employee #1, they confirmed that no documentation of education that was provided on the hospice philosophy to the contracted facilities was available. They further confirmed that no documentation was available and that in-service education for the contracted facilities had not been done.”