Standard Cover Letter Incorrectly Requests Plan of Correction

Two WHCA AL members recently shared concerns regarding an inaccurate statement on the DSHS cover letter that is attached to a Statement of Deficiencies (SOD) report. Of note, the current cover letter states the following, with the area of concern highlighted in yellow:

“Complete correction(s) within 45 days, or sooner if directed by the Department, after review of your proposed correction dates. Have your plan approved by the Department.”

WAC 388-78A-3152 states that, while the assisted living must attest to the correction for every citation, “the home must be able to show the department, upon request, that, for each deficiency cited, the home as a plan of correction….”  Further in this section of WAC 388-78A-3152 states that “the home must return the inspection report, with completed attestation of correction statements, to the department within ten calendar days of receiving the report.”

WHCA contacted DSHS regarding the issue and received an email response that they have contacted their IT team and will have the language changed to read, “have your plan of correction available upon request from the Department.”

Of note, when submitting your attestation signatures and dates to DSHS following the receipt of a SOD report, you are not required to submit your written plan of correction; if you choose to do so, the plan of correct document will likely be posted on the public-facing DSHS website.

For any questions regarding assisted living licensing or inspection processes, please email Vicki McNealley or call 360-352-3304 extension 107.