Visitation –Brooksville Healthcare Center does not have any set visiting hours, however, our doors lock automatically every evening for the safety of our residents. If you arrive after the doors have locked, please utilize the doorbell to alert the staff of your arrival.

Safety – We continue to encourage social distancing during your visits and conduct COVID testing for residents and staff upon presentation of symptoms and when there are positive cases are present in facility,  Hand sanitizer is available throughout facility and you are encouraged to use upon entry and exit and frequently during visit.  Facial coverings are available and are encouraged during visits.  

Full Nursing Assessment – Upon arrival, you will receive a complete medical assessment by our Nurses and medications will be ordered. Staff will be checking on you frequently to ensure all of your needs are met.

Dining – Your preferences matter to us! Meals and snacks are provided along with an alternate menu. If you are unhappy, please reach out to our Dietary Manager or your Guardian Angel.

Therapy Evaluation – Our therapists will see you within 24-48 hours of admission to begin crafting a personalized Plan of Care. Our goal is to help you get stronger and return to your prior level of independence so that you can go back to being your best.

Laundry Services – We will provide laundry services during your stay unless you would prefer to have a family member do this for you.

Interdisciplinary Team – Our team will work with you and your family to begin planning a safe discharge or to your next level of care within 72 hours of admission. Care conferences will be used to discuss your goals and progress during your stay.

COVID-19 – We have implemented numerous safeguards per Federal and State recommendations and mandates. We are working hard to keep everyone safe during this time. Please feel free to ask any questions as they occur to you. Additional information and education are available upon request.

Meet Professional Care You Can Trust

We Provide Care

Our staff is comprised of directors, nurses, therapists, administrators, and more who offer the utmost respect and compassion for your loved ones. We understand the littlest things make the biggest difference in the lives of our patients.

SKILLED NURSING

Our facility offers short-term or long-term options to help your loved one recovery as quickly as possible so they can return home and to their day-to-day life. We offer inpatient and outpatient therapy and rehabilitation services to all families.

Following surgery, or injury or illness, our staff provides skilled nursing services, and therapy and rehabilitation your loved one needs. There are a number of reasons you may need our care including stroke, a broken bone, or surgery—Brooksville Healthcare provides individuals with the 24-hour support they need to allow for a faster and improved long term recovery.

We offer the benefits of a hospital in a home-like setting to ensure a more comfortable recovery. We offer stroke recovery, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and medical nutritional therapy. Our inpatient and outpatient therapy and rehabilitation options are sure to give your loved one the support they need to regain their strength on their journey to recovery.

RESPITE CARE

Here at Brooksville Healthcare Center, we understand that caring for a loved one can be excruciatingly exhausting and frustrating when you have to do it all alone.

Our respite care services are designed to give primary caregivers a break by providing planned or emergency care for individuals in need. Our services are used for temporary situations and our duties include helping individuals with day-to-day activities and needs.

Our respite care services can be provided at our facility. We provide many options to allow flexibility with you and your schedule.

Our services are charged hourly/per day and are/are not covered by most insurance. To talk about the needs of your loved one and whether or not respite care is the best option for you, call (352)796-6701 to talk to our Admissions Director/Admissions Coordinator and learn more about the services offered.

PALLIATIVE CARE

At Brooksville Healthcare, we strive to provide compassionate quality care to support individuals and caregivers who are living with terminal illnesses no matter where they reside. Our goal is to provide your loved ones with a high quality of life each and every day.

 Our care directive services include 24-hour support, clinical and skilled care, spiritual and emotional counseling, and often music therapy. 

This experience can be deeply meaningful and we strive to take the stress out of the process so you can enjoy all the little moments of life with your loved one.

OUTPATIENT CARE

Outpatient care is available at Brooksville Healthcare on an outpatient basis, including diagnosis, observation, consultation, treatment, intervention, and rehabilitation services.

Our services are charged per day and are/are not covered by most insurance. To talk about the needs of your loved one and whether or not a memory care facility is the best option for you, call (352) 796-6701 to talk to a staff member and learn more about the services offered.

Residents/Family members frequently ask, “What should I bring for my stay?” You may wish to consider the following:

• Approximately 7 changes of comfortable clothing.
• Approximately 7 changes of bed clothing.
• Toiletry items that you may prefer that do not have a warning label such as “Keep out of reach of children”.
• Pictures (Decorative or Family) for your walls to make your room more home-like.
• Favorite pillow or items of comfort they would enjoy.
• Radio can be brought for your entertainment.

Please help us keep your loved one’s grooming items separate from his/her roommate’s. To prevent unintentional sharing of personal items, we would like to label grooming items of residents in semi-private rooms. When you bring in new items such as toothbrushes, combs, brushes, etc., please label them. We feel this is important. Please help us with this task.

As a reminder, please do not bring the following:

• Heirloom jewelry or expensive perfumes or colognes
• Large amounts of cash. A facility trust fund is available for cash.
• Over-the-counter medications.
• Disinfectant chemicals.
• Heating pad
• Electric blanket
• Microwave
• Laundry hampers with holes (airtight containers with a lid are permitted)

ADMIT KIT

Male (Includes: washbasin, urinal, wipes, tissues, lotion, shampoo bottle, razor, shave cream, aftershave lotion, deodorant, mouthwash, gloves)

Female (Includes: washbasin, wipes, tissues, lotion, shampoo bottle, deodorant, mouthwash, gloves)

ADULT BRIEFS • Medium (12 pk) • Large (12 pk) • X-Large (12 pk) • 2X-Large (12 pk)

• Shaving Cream
• Fracture Bedpan
• Razor
• Urinal
• Washbasin
• Toothpaste
• Emesis Basin
• Toothbrush
• O2 Concentrator
• Oxygen Tank
• Mouthwash
• Fixodent Denture Tablets (4 pk)
• Denture Container
• Deodorant
• Lotion
• Hairbrush Comb or Pick
• Tissues
• Washable Underpads (10 pk)
• Gloves (all sizes)
• Bedpan

Residents MAY NOT bring in any spray cans, in which gas under pressure sprays out the contents such as hair spray or deodorant. Glass containers are not allowed in the Resident rooms, such as glass vases or drinking glasses.

Policy: 

Each resident has the right to keep the personal property in their room while residing at this center. We will not insure or guarantee personal items from loss or damage but will assist to prevent and or locate any item that is reported as missing. 

Procedure: 

1. Upon admission, the center will provide each resident and/ or their representative with an inventory sheet. Staff will update the inventory sheet as items are brought into or removed from the center.

2. If the family prefers that the center label items with our labeling system, the family should place all items in a labeled (name and room#) container and give to the Nursing Supervisor on duty or to the Social Services Director. The Laundry Supervisor will ensure that items are labeled and returned to the resident's room.

3. The center suggests that residents keep all valuables at home and that cash be placed in

the patient trust fund account located in the business office.

4. Please report missing items immediately to the nurse taking care of the resident, the Nursing Supervisor, or Social Services.

5. When items are lost immediately, the center will complete a concern form that lists the item(s) missing, timeline and description. All concern forms are numbered, logged, and Distributed to the appropriate supervisors for assignment, completion, and to prevent reoccurrence.

6. The center will investigate and notify the resident and/ or representative within two weeks of the outcome.

7. All suspected criminal activity will be reported to the police department.

8. Any employee, visitor, or alert-oriented resident that has been found to misappropriate any Resident's belongings will be held accountable and reported to the local police and State Government agencies.

Actions:

The center takes the following steps to prevent the loss or theft of personal property:

1. Level II background screening on all applicants

2. Job reference checks

3. Thorough investigations into complaints of theft or misappropriation of resident's personal property.

4. Video surveillance in common areas and hallways.

5. Education of staff regarding the importance of maintaining security through orientation and annual training.

We recognize the importance of maintaining a safe, secure environment in which resident's personal items are protected from theft or accidental loss to the fullest extent possible. We recognize the right of each resident to keep and use personal items as space permits, and we are committed to protecting and promoting the right through the following policies and procedures.

Goals:

Our shared goals are to minimize the frequency of misplaced, lost, or stolen items and to enhance the ability of residents to keep and enjoy their personal items in a safe, secure, and home-like environment. 

Designation of Coordinator:

The person responsible for coordinating these efforts is the facility's Social Services Director.

Facility and Staff Responsibilities:

Upon admission, staff will provide an inventory sheet to identify personal items brought into the center. This inventory will be checked at discharge from the center. Facility will train staff to be aware of situations where accidental loss may occur and regarding measures to discourage theft and accidental losses. Facility will only be responsible for these items in the event that staff member's accidentally break these items or when they are lost while in staff safekeeping. 

RESIDENT AND FAMILY/RESIDENT REPRESENTATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES:

We ask that residents and family members mark articles of clothing, photographs, mementos, TV's, radios, jewelry and assistive devices such as eyeglasses, hearing aids, dentures, and medical prostheses. Any items brought into resident after the admission inventory was completed should be added to resident's inventory sheet. The facility has equipment and supplies available to assist you with the marking of resident's belongings. We also ask that valuable items be kept at home in order to assure their safety.  We suggest that if a resident decides to keep cash in their rooms, it should be in a small amount, no more than five dollars. A trust fund account is available for residents by contacting the business office. If items are missing the loss should be reported immediately to the Change Nurse caring for resident or Social Services Director, who is facility's grievance officer. Nursing, Social Services and Housekeeping staff will assist to locate missing item. 

Screening/Education:

The center conducts background checks on all employees as required by law and looks for personal honesty and integrity in references from former employers. Staff and resident education concerning the importance of safeguarding resident belongings is a critical part of this program and we will present the issue for discussion/ education with staff, residents and family members on a regular basis. 

Missing Items/Reporting and Follow Up

Any losses or suspected losses will be documented using the Service Recovery forms. We will follow up promptly by searching for the missing item and investigating the circumstances involved. In any event, where there is reasonable suspicion that a crime has occurred, local Law Enforcement and the State Survey Agency will be notified. A log will be maintained by Social Services to track investigations and to identify any areas of concern and prevent reoccurrence. 

Discharge:

Upon resident's discharge from the facility, there will be a maximum of 15 days allowed to arrange for the pickup of any personal belongings. After this time, we will make arrangements to donate or utilize the items and you will be unable to claim them. Special arrangements can be made to extend this time frame if needed. 

What is a Plan of Care?

A plan of care, or care plan, is a “game plan” or “strategy” for how the nursing home staff will help a resident. The plan of care must be in writing. It tells each staff member what to do and when to do it (e.g., dietary aide will place water on the right side because Mrs. Jones has left side paralysis). One reason the care plan is so important is because many tasks are performed by aides who do not have the extensive training that is required of doctors and nurses. Without proper instructions in a care plan, the aides might not know what needs to be done.

Care plans must be reviewed regularly to make sure they work. They must be revised as needed. The best care plans work to make the resident feel like his or her needs are being met and are consistent with the resident’s goals and values.

What Is a “Care Plan Meeting”?

At a care plan meeting, staff and residents/families talk about life in the facility – meals, activities, therapies, personal schedule, medical and nursing care, and emotional needs. Residents/families can bring up problems, ask questions, or offer information to help staff provide care. A representative from each staff group working with the resident should be involved – nursing assistants, nurse, physician, social worker, activities staff, dietitian, occupational and physical therapists.

Federal law provides that, to the extent possible, the resident, the resident’s family, or the resident’s legal representative should participate in the care plan meeting. When you participate, the staff should listen to you and should use language you understand. If you don’t understand something, ask that they explain it to you. If you ask for something and they tell you no, don’t be afraid to ask why. Seek specific answers to your questions.

Care Plan Meeting Frequency

Care plan meetings must occur every three months, and whenever there is a major change in a resident’s physical or mental health that might require a change in care. The care plan must be done within 7 days after an assessment. Assessments must be done within 14 days of admission and at least once a year, with reviews every three months and when there is a significant change in a resident’s condition.

How Can Residents and Their Families Participate in Care Planning?

Residents have the right to make choices about care, services, daily schedule and life in the facility, and to be involved in the care planning meeting. Participation is the only way to be heard.

Before the Meeting

Tell staff what you want, what’s working, what’s not working, how you feel, your concerns, and what questions you have; plan your agenda of questions, problems and goals for yourself and your care.

Know, or ask your doctor or staff, about your condition, care and treatment.

Ask staff to hold the meeting when your family can attend if you want them there.

During the Meeting

Discuss options for treatment and for meeting your needs and preferences. Ask questions if you need terms or procedures explained to you.

Be sure to understand and agree with the care plan and feel it meets your needs. Ask for a copy of your care plan; ask with whom to talk if you need changes made (e.g., if you hate carrots and they keep serving you carrots at every meal, you should speak up and let them know you’d like something else).

After the Meeting

Residents

See how your care plan is being followed. Talk with nurse’s aides, other staff, or the doctor about it.

Families

Support your relative’s agenda, choices, and participation in the meeting.

Even if your relative has dementia, involve him/her in the care planning as much as possible. Always assume he/she may understand and communicate at some level. Help staff find ways to communicate with and work with your relative.

Help watch how the care plan is working and talk with staff if questions arise.

BREAKFAST

LUNCH

DINNER

Extra Guest Meal - $3.00

Please contact Frankie Plummer (352)796-6701 with any special requests.

CH 2 Message Now

CH 3 COM Guide

CH 4 ABC

CH 5 FOX

CH 6 CBS

CH 7 NBC 

CH 8 PBS

CH 9 ION

CH 10 Jewish Life

CH 11 Invest Discovery 

CH 12 Bloomburg TV

CH 13 CSPAN

CH 14 FOX Business Net

CH 15 FOX News Channel

CH 16 Accuweather

CH 17 MSNBC

CH 18 CNN

CH 19 HLN

CH 20 A&E

CH 21 AMC

CH 22 TBS

CH 23 TLC

CH 24 USA

CH 25 TNT

CH 26 Freeform

CH 27 TV Land

CH 28 Hallmark Channel

CH 29 Hallmark Movie

CH 30 TCM

CH 31 Lifetime

CH 32 EWTN

CH 33 Paramount

CH 34 FX

CH 35 FXX

CH 36 Food Net

CH 37 Animal Planet

CH 38 Discovery

CH 39 History

CH 40 National Geographic

CH 41 HGTV

CH 42 TruTV

CH 43 Inspiration

CH 44 FOX Sports SUN

CH 45 MLB

CH 46 ESPN

CH 47 ESPN 2

CH 48 ESPN News

CH 49 FOX Sports

CH 50 FOX Sports SUN

Royal Oak Nursing Center is pleased to announce that we have Wi-Fi available for residents and families inside our facility.

Network Name: resident

Password: resident

If you have any issues or questions, feel free to ask us for assistance. 

At Brooksville Healthcare Center,  patient and family satisfaction is very important.  You or your family will receive a questionnaire via email and/or text at various times throughout your stay and upon discharge. We ask that you please complete this form. These surveys are used to evaluate our performance and determine our strengths and weaknesses. This gives us the viewpoint of the residents and families regarding the quality of care provided. It is important that we excel in our performance so any suggestions are appreciated. 

Are you active on social media?

Well, we are too! This facility may utilize social media channels as a method of providing our residents, families, employees, and our community with a convenient platform to learn more about our services, values and culture. Our goal is to provide content that is valuable, relevant, and timely, and by doing so, provide yet another invitation for engagement and effective communication.

In order to best serve our residents, please be mindful of how you are using social media in our facility and what you are posting on your pages. Our residents have a right to their privacy and dignity as well as for their spiritual, cultural, and personal values to be honored.

If you'd like to take photos or record any video of your loved one or any of the wonderful activities and events we have here, please be aware of what is included in your media before posting it. Feel free to reach out to the Administrator if you are not sure the media you're considering is compliant.

Here are some helpful tips on what to avoid:

• Try to not capture other residents in your media, but if you do, please make sure you have their consent before posting it.

• Do not post anything that may be protected by copyright or other proprietary rights of any party.

• Ask yourself if anyone in the media you're considering would be embarrassed by the content.

Thank you for being active in our facility and sharing all the great memories that we experience together. We strive to create a home-like, family atmosphere and you are a very important part of that goal. We look forward to seeing you out there!

SHAMPOO, SETS, & CUTS

Shampoo/ Blow Dry - $35.00

Shampoo/ Roller Set - $40.00

Shampoo/ Cut/ No Dry - $35.00

Shampoo/ Cut/ Blow Dry - $40.00

Shampoo/ Cut/ Roller Set - $45.00

Shampoo/ Curling Set - $45.00

Shampoo/ Cut/ Curling Iron Set - $55.00

Men's Haircut - $22.00

Shampoo & Dry Only - $14.00

Add Conditioner Rinse to any Service - $5.00

Add Oil Treatment to any Service - $10.00

Shoulder Length or Longer Hair (Add for any service) - $10.00

COLOR

Shampoo/ Color/ Blow Dry or Set - $70.00

Shampoo/ Cut/ Color/ Blow Dry or Set - $80.00

PERMS & RELAXERS

Shampoo/ Perm - $70.00

Shampoo/ Cut/ Perm - $80.00

AESTHETICS

Hair Removal - Brow, Chin, Lip - $10.00 each (all 3 for $25.00)

Men's Facial Grooming  - $8.00

ADDITIONAL SERVICES

In Room Service - $10.00 additional 

SMOKING POLICY & PROCEDURE

PURPOSE: To provide residents the privilege of smoking while maintaining their safety and safety of others.

POLICIES:

1. Resident smoking is permitted only in the designated smoking area. All other areas of facility property are smoke-free.

2. All smokers will be assessed upon admission and as their cognitive and/or physical status mandates.

3. Residents who have been assessed will only use tobacco products with supervision at the appointed smoking times.

4. If the smoking assessment score above 5 in all categories, residents are not at risk. If the score is less than 5 in one category, resident is at risk for smoking related incidents and will be care planned accordingly. If the score is 5 or below in two or more categories, resident is high risk for smoking related incidents and will be care planned accordingly. Only residents that have been assessed and deemed to be safe to smoke on their own will be allowed to smoke at times other than designated smoke times. (As of 8/18/2019, all smokers, including those who are cleared to smoke on their own, may smoke only during posted smoking times.) If they assist any other resident with smoking, these privileges will be lost. If they again assist any other resident with smoking, a 30-day discharge notice will be issued to both residents.

5. All residents who use tobacco products will be appropriately care planned.

6. Residents are to only smoke the products that are purchased specifically for them. There is no borrowing or sharing of tobacco products between residents or staff. If a resident does not have tobacco products, they cannot smoke.

7. Tobacco products will be dispensed one at a time per resident request, with a limit of two cigarettes per smoking break.

8. Absolutely no tobacco paraphernalia and tobacco products are to be kept in resident rooms.

9. At any time, if a resident is found with tobacco materials in his/her room or is found smoking in the room, such articles will be removed and smoking privileges will be revoked.

10. At any time that policy is violated, smoking and/or tobacco usage privileges will be revoked.

11. Tobacco and smoking privileges may be revoked or limited at any time at the discretion of the facility administration.

12. No resident may smoke while on oxygen, nor may any guest that is on oxygen accompany the resident as they smoke.

13. All smoking paraphernalia will be kept by licensed staff. Smoking material for ALL residents will be kept in a secured locked box with the residents’ names on each individual box or carton.

14. E-Cigarettes are considered the same as cigarettes and are subject to the same policies.

PROCEDURE:

1. A licensed nurse will assess all smokers upon admission and as cognitive or physical status changes warrant.

2. A staff member will accompany and supervise all residents during designated smoking times, as staffing levels permit.

3. Resident smoking and tobacco use is only allowed in the designated smoking area.

4. Residents will periodically be reviewed to reassess their ability to smoke or use tobacco safely.

5. Aprons will be provided by the facility for residents to use based on the smoking assessment.

Addendum to Smoking Policy During Covid-19 Pandemic

Due to current precautions during the Covid-19 Pandemic, smoking will be limited to two times each day, currently scheduled for 10:00 am and 3:00 pm.

PROCEDURE:

1. All residents must stay at least six feet away from each other at all times.

2. Each resident will receive two cigarettes during each smoke break.

3. A staff member will be with the residents at all times to monitor safety and social distancing.

Medicare

Medicaid

Aetna

America’s Choice Provider Network

Ancicare

Avmed

Baycare Plus

Blue Cross Blue Shield

Care Plus

Cigna

Corvel

Coventry Health Plans

Devoted Health Plans

Evolutions Healthcare

Humana

Molina Healthcare

Novanet PPO Network

Prime Health Services PPO Network

Sunshine State Health Plan

Three Rivers Provider network

Tricare

Ultimate

UMWA

Veterans Affairs

Wellcare

Wellmed

Medicare Summary 2025

Here is the Way Medicaid Works

For the person in the nursing home: For Medicaid to pay for your nursing home bills in Florida, your monthly income must be $2901 or less. You get to keep $160 a month to pay for personal needs and enough to pay for any health insurance that you might have, and then the rest of your income goes to the nursing home. Medicare makes up the difference in the bill.

You can keep $2,000 in liquid assets such as savings and stocks. In some cases, you may be allowed to keep more than $2,000 in liquid assets. Your local office of Department of Children and Families can tell you. You can establish an irrevocable burial contract and keep your house. If you have any savings left over, they are spent on nursing home care.

For your spouse at home: When you qualify for Medicaid, your spouse is guaranteed at least $2555per month in income, if your combined total income is at least that much. Your spouse keeps his or her income and as much of your income as it takes to reach $2555. The rest goes to the nursing home.

Your spouse, in some cases may be allowed to keep up to $157,920 of countable assets. Also, your spouse is allowed to keep the house (up to $730,000), car, and household goods. All remaining assets, no matter whose name they are in, are spent on nursing home care.

Can You Give Your Money Away? If you have given money to anyone other than your spouse within 60 months of entering the nursing home, Medicaid can deny you benefits.

Any Questions About Medicaid?

Call the Department of Children and Families (866)762-2237

How To Apply for Medicaid

WHERE TO GO:

Apply through Social Services Department:

Or through:

Department of Children & Families

Phone: 866-762-2237

You may also apply on-line at

https://www.myflfamilies.com/service-programs/access/

WHAT TO BRING:

You’ll need proof of:

• Identity: Birth Certificate or driver’s license

• Residence: (Utility bills, voter’s registration, etc.)

• Income and asset amounts: (Social Security checks, other evidence of your income and the income of your spouse – also bank statements and other evidence of things you own.

• Copies of Life and/or Medical Insurance Policies

• Proof of any unpaid medical bills for the past three months that are not subject to be paid by insurance

• Disability

• Health Insurance (Bring ID card and proof of premiums)

GRIEVANCE POLICY: All persons are encouraged to make requests, share concerns, and file grievances regarding care and/or services without fear of retribution or negative treatment. Customer Service/Grievance forms are provided on admission and are available throughout the facility in lobbies and nursing units. A concern or grievance may be given orally or in writing. You also have the right to file a grievance anonymously.

If you have a concern or grievance, you may contact our Grievance Official:

Jacqueline Dirscherl-Corbin

jdirscherl-corbin@brooksvillehealthcare.com

352-796-6701

Every attempt will be made to resolve the issue within five (5) business days. Contact should be made with the persons involved by the 5th day if indicated, to make them aware of the results and/or status of the investigation and/or follow-up. Complex issues may require more time beyond the 5 days. Contact will continue with the parties involved. You also have the right to obtain a written decision regarding your concern or grievance. One will be provided to you upon request.

PROCEDURES

Your concerns are important to us! Anytime you have a concern or grievance, please take the following steps:

1. Notify the grievance official, identified above, of your concern/grievance. This individual is responsible for overseeing the grievance process, receiving and tracking grievances through to their conclusions; leading any necessary investigations by the facility; maintaining the confidentiality of all information associated with grievances, and coordinating with state and federal agencies as necessary in light of specific allegations.

Consistent with §483.12(c)(1), immediately reporting all alleged violations involving neglect, abuse, including injuries of unknown source, and/or misappropriation of resident property, by anyone furnishing services on behalf of the provider, to the administrator of the provider; and as required by State law.

2. If you are not satisfied, please notify either:

Jennifer Muguercia, RN, Director of Nursing

jmuguercia@brooksvillehealthcare.com

352-796-67012

OR

Melissa Crookshanks,  Administrator

mcrookshanks@brooksvillehealthcare.com

352-796-6701

3. If after normal business hours you have a concern that must be addressed immediately, feel free to contact the posted staff member in charge.

4. If an individual requires assistance with filing a concern or grievance, our grievance official will be happy to assist with this process.

5. If your concerns are not resolved satisfactorily, please feel free to contact our corporate office.

Jery Erlandson

Director of Client Services

7056 W Gulf to Lake Hwy

Crystal River, FL 34429

jerlandson@hsmfl.us

352-417-0360

5. In the event that your concerns are not resolved satisfactorily, you may at any time, contact the following outside agencies:

*State Long-Term Care Ombudsman

(888) 831-0404 (Toll Free)

*State Survey & Certification Agency

Agency for Health Care Administration

1-888-419-3456

TTD: 1-800-955-8771

https://portal.carefeed.com/uploads/health_services_/uploads/Z0xY7u8rOj2MfY6n5b41NBEV91ceDP0EcAtwk5wu.png*Quality Improvement Organization

1-844-455-8708

TTY: 1-855-843-4776

Any individual who has a grievance addressed by either federal Civil Rights legislation or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is entitled to a written response within 5 days at each level. Section 504 states, in part, that “no otherwise qualified handicapped individual…shall, solely by reason of his handicap, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance…” The administrator is the designated 504 coordinator for the center and will be happy to address any such issues brought to his/her attention.

What are my rights in a nursing home?

As a nursing home resident, you have certain rights and protections under federal and state law that help ensure you get the care and services you need. You have the right to be informed, make your own decisions, and have your personal information kept private.

The nursing home must tell you about these rights and explain them in writing in a language you understand. They must also explain in writing how you should act and what you’re responsible for while you’re in the nursing home. This must be done before or at the time you’re admitted, as well as during your stay. You must acknowledge in writing that you got this information.

At a minimum, Federal law specifies that nursing homes must protect and promote the following rights of each resident.

You have the right to:

Be Treated with Respect: You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect, as well as make your own schedule and participate in the activities you choose. You have the right to decide when you go to bed, rise in the morning, and eat your meals.

Participate in Activities: You have the right to participate in an activities program designed to meet your needs and the needs of the other residents.

Be Free from Discrimination: Nursing homes don’t have to accept all applicants, but they must comply with Civil Rights laws that say they can’t discriminate based on race, color, national origin, disability, age, or religion. The Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights has more information. Visit http://www.hhs.gov/ocr.

Be Free from Abuse and Neglect: You have the right to be free from verbal, sexual, physical, and mental abuse. Nursing homes can’t keep you apart from everyone else against your will. If you feel you have been mistreated (abused) or the nursing home isn’t meeting your needs (neglect), report this to the nursing home, your family, your local Long-Term Care Ombudsman, or State Survey Agency. The nursing home must investigate and report all suspected violations and any injuries of unknown origin within 5 working days of the incident to the proper authorities.

Be Free from Restraints: Nursing homes can’t use any physical restraints (like side rails) or chemical restraints (like drugs) to discipline you for the staff’s own convenience.

Make Complaints: You have the right to make a complaint to the staff of the nursing home, or any other person, without fear of punishment. The nursing home must address the issue promptly.

Get Proper Medical Care:

You have the following rights regarding your medical care:

• To be fully informed about your total health status in a language you understand.
• To be fully informed about your medical condition, prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements.
• To be involved in the choice of your doctor.
• To participate in the decisions that affect your care.
• To take part in developing your care plan. By law, nursing homes must develop a care plan for each resident. You have the right to take part in this process. Family members can also help with your care plan with your permission.
• To access all your records and reports, including clinical records (medical records and reports) promptly (on weekdays). Your legal guardian has the right to look at all your medical records and make important decisions on your behalf.
• To express any complaints (sometimes called “grievances”) you have about your care or treatment.
• To create advance directives (a health care proxy or power of attorney, a living will, after-death wishes) in accordance with State law. To refuse to participate in experimental treatment.

Have Your Representative Notified:

The nursing home must notify your doctor and, if known, your legal representative or an interested family member when the following occurs:

• You’re involved in an accident and are injured and/or need to see a doctor.
• Your physical, mental, or psychosocial status starts to get worse.
• You have a life-threatening condition.
• You have medical complications.
• Your treatment needs to change significantly.
• The nursing home decides to transfer or discharge you from the nursing home.

Get Information on Services and Fees:

You have the right to be told in writing about all nursing home services and fees (those that are charged and not charged to you) before you move into the nursing home and at any time when services and fees change. In addition:

• The nursing home can’t require a minimum entrance fee if your care is paid for by Medicare or Medicaid.
• For people seeking admission to the nursing home, the nursing home must tell you (both orally and in writing) and also display written information about how to apply for and use Medicare and Medicaid benefits.
• The nursing home must also provide information on how to get a refund if you paid for an item or service, but because of Medicare and Medicaid eligibility rules, it’s now considered covered.

Manage Your Money: You have the right to manage your own money or to choose someone you trust to do this for you. In addition:

• If you deposit your money with the nursing home or ask them to hold or account for your money, you must sign a written statement saying you want them to do this.
• The nursing home must allow you access to your bank accounts, cash, and other financial records.
• The nursing home must have a system that ensures full accounting for your funds and can’t combine your funds with the nursing home’s funds.
• The nursing home must protect your funds from any loss by providing an acceptable protection, such as buying a surety bond.
• If a resident with a fund dies, the nursing home must return the funds with a final accounting to the person or court handling the resident’s estate within 30 days.

Get Proper Privacy, Property, and Living Arrangements:

You have the following rights:

• To keep and use your personal belongings and property as long as they don’t interfere with the rights, health, or safety of others.
• To have private visits.
• To make and get private phone calls.
• To have privacy in sending and getting mail and email.
• To have the nursing home protect your property from theft.
• To share a room with your spouse if you both live in the same nursing home (if you both agree to do so).
• The nursing home has to notify you before your room or your roommate is changed and should take your preferences into account.
• To review the nursing home’s health and fire safety inspection results.

Spend Time with Visitors:

You have the following rights:

• To spend private time with visitors.
• To have visitors at any time, as long as you wish to see them, as long as the visit does not interfere with the provision of care and privacy rights of other residents
• To see any person who gives you help with your health, social, legal, or other services may at any time. This includes your doctor, a representative from the health department, and your Long-Term Care Ombudsman, among others.

Get Social Services:

The nursing home must provide you with any needed social services, including the following:

• Counseling.
• Help to solve problems with other residents.
• Help in contacting legal and financial professionals.
• Discharge planning.

Leave the Nursing Home:

Leaving for visits: If your health allows, and your doctor agrees, you can spend time away from the nursing home visiting family or friends during the day or overnight, called a “leave of absence.” Talk to the nursing home staff a few days ahead of time so the staff has time to prepare your medicines and write your instructions. Caution: If your nursing home care is covered by certain health insurance, you may not be able to leave for visits without losing your coverage.

Moving out: Living in a nursing home is your choice. You can choose to move to another place. However, the nursing home may have a policy that requires you to tell them before you plan to leave. If you don’t, you may have to pay an extra fee.

Have Protection Against Unfair Transfer or Discharge: You can’t be sent to another nursing home, or made to leave the nursing home unless any of the following are true:

• It’s necessary for the welfare, health, or safety of you or others.
• Your health has improved to the point that nursing home care is no longer necessary.
• The nursing home hasn’t been paid for the services you got.
• The nursing home closes.

You have the following rights:

• You have the right to appeal a transfer or discharge to the State.
• The nursing home can’t make you leave if you’re waiting to get Medicaid.
• Except in emergencies, nursing homes must give a 30-day written notice of their plan and reason to discharge or transfer you.
• The nursing home has to safely and orderly transfer or discharge you and give you proper notice of bed-hold and/or readmission requirements.

Form or Participate in Resident Groups: You have a right to form or participate in a resident group to discuss issues and concerns about the nursing home’s policies and operations. Most homes have such groups, often called “resident councils.” The home must give you meeting space and must listen to and act upon grievances and recommendations of the group.

Have Your Family and Friends Involved: Family and friends can help make sure you get good quality care. They can visit and get to know the staff and the nursing home’s rules. Family members and legal guardians may meet with the families of other residents and may participate in family councils if one exists. Family members can help with your care plan with your permission. If a family member or friend is your legal guardian, he or she has the right to look at all medical records about you and make important decisions on your behalf.

THIS NOTICE DESCRIBED HOW MEDICAL INFORMATION ABOUT YOU MAY BE USED AND DISCLOSED AND HOW YOU CAN GET ACCESS TO THIS INFORMATION. PLEASE REVIEW IT CAREFULLY 

Protecting Your Privacy 

Each time you visit a health care facility, a record of your visit is made. This record generally contains information about your medical conditions, the treatments and medications that were prescribed and given to you, and notes concerning the course and results of your stay. 

We endeavor to handle this information about you and your health with the greatest care. This notice, which is required by law, describes how we manage your protected health information and our commitment to protecting your privacy. 

This notice applies to this nursing facility, its contracted pharmacy and laboratory services, contracted therapy services, if applicable, all attending physicians with whom the center has admitting agreements, and other affiliated health care services normally coordinated by this center. One provision of this notice serves for all affiliated covered entities. 

Protected Health Information (PHI) 

Protected health information (PHI) is health information, including demographic information that could be used to identify you with your health status that is created or received by a health care provider, health plan, employer, or health care clearinghouse; and that relates to: 

• Past, present, or futures physical or mental health or condition;

• The health care provided to you; or

• The past, present, or future payment for the health care provided to you.

Responsibilities of the Center

We are required by law to maintain the privacy of protected health information, to provide individuals with notice of our legal duties and privacy practices with respect to protected health information, and to notify affected individuals following a breach of unsecured protected health information. 

We are required to abide by the terms of the notice currently in effect. We reserve the right to change the terms of this notice and to make new provisions effective for all protected health information that we maintain. The new notice will be posted in a clear and prominent location in the building anon our website, and we will notify you any other individuals if we change our privacy practices. Copies of the revised notice will also be available upon request on or after the effective date of the revision. 

Uses and disclosure of Treatment, Payment, or Health Care Operations

We are permitted by law to use and disclose your protected health information for the purpose of treatment, payment, and health care operations. 

Treatment: Your protected health information may be used or disclosed in order to provide, coordinate, or manage your health care and relate services. This includes the coordination or management of your health care by a health care provider with a third party, consultation between health care providers to another. For example, your nurse may tell your physician about any changes or developments in your health so that they can provide you with the proper treatments. 

Payment: Your protected health information may be used or disclosed to obtain or provide reimbursement for the health care provided to you. For example, we may disclose your diagnoses and treatments to your insurance provider in order to be reimbursed for providing you with the related health care. 

Health Care Operations: Your protected health information may be used or disclosed for our health care operations, such as conducting quality assessment and improvement activities; evaluating the performance of your health care providers; conducting or arranging for medical review legal services, and auditing functions, including fraud and abuse detection and compliance program; business planning and development; and other business management and general administrative activities that necessitate the use of protected health information. For example, your nurse may let your therapist, social services director, or others involved in your care planning know of any changes or developments in your health conditions so that they can assess and improve the quality of care that you receive. 

Other Permitted or Required uses and disclosures 

The HIP AA Privacy Rule permits or requires us to use or disclose your protected health information without you written authorization, in the following circumstances: 

• We may discuss your PHI with you.

• We may use or disclose your PHI pursuant to your agreement to use or disclose your information in our facility, to other individuals involved in your care, or for notification purposes.

• We may use or disclose your PHI without your agreement or written authorization for the following circumstances: when required by law; for public health activities; about victims of abuse, neglect, or domestic violence; for health oversight activities; for judicial and administrative hearing; for law enforcement purposes; about decedents; for cadaveric organ, eye, or tissue donation purpose; for research purposes; to avert a serious threat to health or safety; and for workers' compensation.

• We may use or disclose your information in a limited data set to those with whom we have a data use agreement. A limited data set is PHI that excludes certain direct identifiers of you or of your relatives, employers, or household members.

• We may use or disclose to a business associate or to an institutionally related foundation, limited PHI about you for the purpose of raising funds for our own benefit.

• We may use or disclose your PHI when required by the secretary of the department of health and human services for compliant investigations or to determine our compliance withHIPAA .

• We may use or disclose your protected health information pursuant to your written authorization.

Uses and Disclosures that require an Authorization

We are required to obtain a written authorization from you before we can use or disclose PHI in the following circumstances: 

Psychotherapy Notes: We must obtain written authorization for any use or disclosure of psychotherapy notes, except when required by law or defend ourselves in a legal action or other proceedings. 

Marketing: We must obtain written authorization for any use or disclosure of PHI for marketing, except if the communication is in the form of a face-to-face communication made by the center to you or a promotional gift of nominal value provided by the center. 

Sale of PHI: We must obtain written authorization for any disclosure of your PHI that is considered a sale of PHI. 

Other uses and disclosures not described in this notice will be made only with your written authorization. You may revoke an authorization at any time, except to the extent that action has already been taken. Such a request must be made in writing. 

You're Health Information Rights 

Your rights are specifically defined in federal regulations found at 45 CFR 164.522 through 45 CFR 164.528, but in general, they include the following: 

• The right to request restrictions on certain uses and disclosures of PHI

• The right to receive confidential communications of PHI

• The right to inspect and copy PHI

• The right to amend PHI

• The right to receive an accounting of disclosure of PHI

• The right of a patient, including a patient who has agrees to receive the notice electronically, to obtain a paper copy of the notice from the center upon request.

How you may Exercise your Health Information Rights 

We will make every effort to help you exercise your rights during your stay in this center. Speak to any staff member at any time concerning these rights and you will be assisted. 

• You may request restrictions on certain uses and disclosures of your PHI for purposes related to treatment, payment, or our health care operations. Such requests must be made in writing and submitted to the privacy officer. Although we will consider your request, please be aware that we are not obligated to agree to it.

• You may request that we not disclose your health information to certain family members or friends and that your name not be placed in our center directory to inform visitors who ask for you by name, or members of the clergy who ask for patients by religious affiliation, of your location in the center. You will have an opportunity to make such requests at the time of admission. Requests after admission must be made in writing and submitted to the privacy officer.

• If you are dissatisfied with the manner or location in which you are receiving communications from us related to your health information, you may request to receive such communications from us by alternative means or at alternative locations. Such a request must be made in writing and submitted to the privacy officer. We will attempt to accommodate all reasonable requests.

• You may request to inspect and/ or obtain a copy of your health information, which will be provided to you in the timeframes established by law. You may make such requests orally or in writing to the Health Information/Medical Record Services Department.

• In order to better respond to your request, we ask that you make a request for copies of your records in writing, using our authorization form. There is a standard fee for copies made. For more information about this right, speak to the privacy officer, or the Health Information Manager.

• If you believe that any health information in your record is incorrect or if you believe that important information is missing, you may request a correction or an addendum. Such a request must be made in writing and must provide a reason to support the correction/ amendment. We ask that you use the form provided by our center to make such requests. Contact the privacy officer of the health information manager to request a form.

You may receive a written accounting of all disclosures made by us during the time period for which you request (not to exceed 6 years). We ask that such requests be made in writing on a form provided by the center.

Please note that an accounting will not apply to any of the following types of disclosure: disclosures made for reason of treatment, payment, or health care operations; disclosures made to you or your legal representative of any other individual involved with your care or for notification purposes; disclosures to correctional institutions or law enforcement officials; disclosures pursuant to an authorization; disclosures for the center's directory; or incident to use a or disclosure otherwise permitted or required by the Privacy Rule. 

Complaints 

We will strive to properly handle information about you at all times. However, if you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you may complain to the privacy officer of this center and other persons in authority, up to and including the secretary of Health and Human Services. There will be no retaliation for filing a complaint. 

Contacts 

To request further information concerning this privacy notice, to report a problem, or to file a complaint, contact the privacy officer for this center, whose name and telephone number are listed below. 

In the event the privacy officer is not available, you may also contact the Social Services Department, the Director of Nursing, or the Administrator at any time. 

Privacy Officer: Rhonda Howe 

Telephone#: (352)796-6701 

What is Advance Care Planning?

Advance care planning means planning ahead for how you want to be treated if you are very ill or near death. Sometimes when people are in an accident or have an illness that will cause them to die they are not able to talk or to let others know how they feel. Texas law allows you to tell your doctor how you want to be treated by using an advance directive. Chapter 166 of the Texas Health and Safety Code is the state law on advance care planning through advance directives. Chapter 166 explains advance directives, includes forms to use for advance directives and states how medical decisions can be made when a person does not have an advance directive.

Advance care planning is a 5-step process.

• Thinking about what you would want to happen if you could not talk or communicate with anyone
• Finding out about what kind of choices you will need to make if you become very ill at home, in a nursing home, or in a hospital
• Talking with your family and doctor about how you want to be treated
• Filling out papers that spell out what you want if you are in an accident or become sick
• Telling people what you have decided

Questions and Answers about Advance Care Planning

If I get too sick to say what kind of help I want from doctors or nurses, what can I do?

Putting your wishes in writing makes sure that everyone knows what you want. You can do this using a form called the Directive to Physicians, Family and Surrogates. This form is also sometimes called a Living Will. The form tells doctors, family members or other people who are close to you the type of help you want when you are sick and how you want to be treated. The document includes written instructions on things that you do want and DO NOT want done to you.

Do I have to fill out this form?

No. No one can make you fill out the form. But with it, the people helping you will know what you want if you can’t tell them.

Can I change my mind about what I say on the form?

Yes. You can do that at any time you want. If you change your mind, you must make out a new form and throw away the old one rather than make changes to the old form. That way no one will make a mistake when they are trying to help you.

It is also a good idea to tell your family and doctor that you have changed your wishes.

Remember, this form can only be used when you can’t tell people what you want. If you are awake and able to say what you want, then that is the only thing that matters.

Can someone speak for me if I am not able to say what I want?

Yes. You can fill out a form called a Medical Power of Attorney. This form lets you name someone to speak for you. The person you name is called an agent on the form. You can choose anyone you want to be your agent. It does not have to be a member of your family. But remember, it is always important for your family and agent to know what you want before something happens to you.

If you don’t name someone to be your agent, then state law has a set of rules for how decisions will be made for you.

What are the rules?

Do I need a lawyer to fill out any of these forms?

No. You can fill them out yourself. You can ask a lawyer to help you, but you do not have to. Once you have filled out the forms, all you have to do to make them legal is sign them in front of the proper witnesses You do not need a notary public.

Do doctors, nurses, and hospitals have to follow my instructions?

Yes, unless they inform you in advance that they cannot. If they do not intend to honor your wishes, they are required to give you a reasonable opportunity to or assist you to transfer to a physician or health care provider who will comply with your wishes. Health care professionals cannot simply ignore your wishes.

Other Questions about Hospitals and Nursing Facilities and Treatment at the End of Life

Sometimes people have questions about when it makes sense for them to move from a nursing facility to a hospital. The following information tries to answer some of those questions.

If I’m in a nursing facility and get very sick, should I stay where I am or go to the hospital?

This is a choice you will have to make after you talk to your doctor or family members. If you can get the care you need where you are, it is often safer and more comfortable to stay in the nursing facility. Moving to the hospital can cause problems because the people working there do not know everything about you. Sometimes this leads to problems with medications, pressure sores, and infections. Ask your doctor if there are things you need that the nursing facility can’t do for you. Make sure you understand all the risks in moving or staying where you are.

What is an Out-of-Hospital Do Not Resuscitate Order (OOHDNR)?

This form is for use when you are not in the hospital. It lets you tell health care workers, including Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers, NOT to do some things if you stop breathing or your heart stops. If you don’t have one of these forms filled out, EMS workers will ALWAYS give you CPR or advanced life support even if your advance care planning forms say not to. You should complete this form as well as the Directive to Physicians and Family or Surrogates and the Medical Power of Attorney form if you don’t want CPR.

What is Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)?

You have probably seen this on TV. CPR is pressing on your chest to keep blood flowing and also assistance with breathing, such as mouth-to-mouth assistance. Sometimes electrical shocks are used to help start the heart. CPR is only used for short periods until a person can get to the hospital.

Does CPR always work?

No. It depends on other things, including your overall health and your age. Everyone is different. It does not work very well for most people who have a life-threatening illness or are over 80. You should talk about CPR with your doctor and discuss what is best for you and what best fits with your personal values and goals.

What is Artificial Respiration or Ventilation?

This means getting assistance with breathing when you can’t breathe on your own. A tube is put into your nose or mouth or into your windpipe. If this tube is needed for more than a few weeks, a surgeon will probably need to put the tube directly into your throat. Doing this causes problems with talking, eating, and drinking. The tube is also attached to a machine, which makes it harder to move around.

Eating, Drinking, and Pain During a Terminal Illness

What is Artificial Nutrition and Hydration?

These are medical treatments that allow a person to get food and water when they cannot eat or drink. Fluids can be given through a needle placed in a vein (IV). This is usually done for only a few days because of the risk of infection and because it is hard to keep the needle in place. Sometimes food and water are given through a tube that goes down the nose and throat into the stomach. If the tube needs to be in place for a long time, it is placed directly into the stomach by a surgeon.

These different kinds of tube feeding are different from ordinary eating and drinking because they don’t let the person taste or feel food and liquids like they are used to doing. Also, the person is not in control of their food or liquid intake. Doctors and nurses decide how much food and water they should have in this way.

Do Artificial Nutrition and Hydration Make People Live Longer?

Sometimes, but not always. How effective these kinds of treatment depend on other medical problems. When a person with a terminal illness can’t eat or drink it usually means that the body has stopped working like it should and it will not improve. If this is the case, tube feeding alone will not make the person healthy again. It may even make the person uncomfortable during their final days.

What about Pain and Comfort?

If a person has a medical problem that will cause them to die and they don’t want artificial treatment, they can still be comfortable. Making people comfortable during the final part of their life is called palliative care. Even if there is no cure for a condition, doctors can treat pain, nausea, and discomfort. Comfort should always be part of the treatment plan that a doctor discusses with a patient or family.

The importance of Advance Care Planning

Everyone is going to die sometime, but not everyone gets to choose how they are treated at the end of their lives. Taking the time to do advance care planning can help family members and medical staff act for you. They will be faced with hard decisions near the time of your death. Having an advance care plan lets you make sure that you are treated according to your values and wishes regardless of whether you can speak for yourself.

This list of agencies is being furnished to you in accordance with Federal Law.

If you should have any questions regarding these policies and procedures, please do not hesitate to contact the Social Services Director, Director of Nursing, Nursing Home Administrator or you may contact the agency appropriate to your concern.

Integrity Health Care Systems 

The IHCS Compliance Line 

Phone: 1-866-for IHCS 

(1-866-367-4427) 

Advocacy Center for Persons with Disabilities 

2728 Centerview Dr Suit 102 

Tallahassee, FL 32301 

Phone: 1-850-488-9701 

Abuse: Department of Children and Families Florida Protective Services 

1317 Winewood Blvd 

Building 6, Floor 3 

Tallahassee, FL 32399 

Phone: 1-800-96-ABUSE 

(1-800-962-2873) 

Department of Children and Families State Human Rights Advocacy Committee

11351 Ulmerton Rd Suit 110 

Largo, FL 33778 

Phone: 1-877-595-0384 

Medicaid Billing: Office of the Attorney General 

Medicaid Fraud Control Unit 

The Capitol 

PL-01 

Tallahassee, FL 32399-1050 

Phone: 1-850-414-3990 

State Long Term Care Ombudsman Council 

11351 Ulmerton Rd Suite 303 

Largo, FL 33778 

1-727-588-6912

Licensing and Regulatory: FL Agency for Health Care Administration 

2727 Mahan Dr 

Tallahassee, FL 32308 

Phone: 1-888-419-3456 

Florida Ombudsman Program

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