Essential Guidelines for Hospice Agreements in Colorado Assisted Living Residences
Hospice care frequently plays a critical and compassionate role within Assisted Living Residences (ALRs). While hospice services are typically provided by external organizations contracted directly by residents or their families, it is essential for ALRs in Colorado to understand and adhere to specific regulatory requirements involving hospice care.
According to 6 CCR 1011-1 Chapter 7 of Colorado’s Assisted Living Residence Regulations (sections 8.13 and 8.14), ALRs must maintain formal, written agreements with all hospice providers serving their residents. Compliance with these regulations helps ensure seamless care coordination, clear communication, and well-defined roles, ultimately improving the quality of life for residents receiving hospice care.
Key Requirements for Hospice Agreements
Chapter 7 explicitly outlines critical components that must be included in your hospice provider agreements:
Care Coordination and Communication:
Clearly specify how the ALR and hospice provider will collaborate and communicate to meet the resident’s care needs comprehensively.
Immediate Notification Requirements:
Your agreement must require immediate notification to the hospice provider when:
There is a significant change in the resident’s physical, mental, social, or emotional condition necessitating changes to their care plan;
The resident requires transfer out of the ALR for reasons related to their terminal condition;
The resident passes away.
Hospice Provider Responsibilities:
Explicitly state that the hospice provider determines and adjusts the hospice care plan, including changes to service levels.
Assisted Living Responsibilities:
Clarify that your ALR is responsible for providing 24-hour room and board, along with all other required services as detailed in Chapter 7.
Additionally, if a hospice provider is unable to deliver necessary services, your ALR must follow the requirements of Part 12.5 of Chapter 7, addressing significant changes in a resident's baseline status.
Best Practices to Maintain Compliance:
Regularly verify your resident files to ensure each hospice patient has a current, signed hospice agreement.
Educate staff members on their roles in hospice care coordination.
Promptly notify the resident’s representative of significant changes to the resident’s condition, adhering strictly to Colorado’s notification requirements.
By carefully following these regulations, assisted living operators can ensure compliance, reduce risks, and ultimately enhance the quality of care for residents.
Please note: This blog provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. If you have specific questions regarding hospice agreements or regulatory compliance for your ALR, consult a qualified attorney.
For further guidance or assistance in reviewing your hospice care agreements, please contact Pinkowski Law.