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Jun 1 2021 | New to Assisted Living? Learn What to Expect for Full DSHS Inspection

Many administrators and other assisted living leaders have entered the workforce during COVID-19.  Because the licensing inspections were on hold for over a year, it is likely you have not experienced a full survey (often called inspections in assisted living). This first installment of Survey and Regulatory Update will focus on the very basics: who is coming, and why.
The law requires DSHS conduct a full inspection at least every 12 – 18 months, with a general average of 15 months. Reality is, however, DSHS can initiate a full inspection at any date.
Most assisted living full inspections are conducted during normal business hours, and generally last anywhere from three to five days. The state has discretion, however, to come onsite for an inspection at any time of day and night, and on any day of the week, and occasionally do so.
The licensing inspection begins well before the licensors step foot on the assisted living property. The team first determines the last date of full inspection and schedules the next inspection so that it is unpredictable; this may mean they arrive earlier than anticipated by you, or much later. The window of opportunity is wide, and therefore, it is imperative that you and your team are always prepared.
The team reviews your building’s file at the DSHS office; considerations are taken regarding sample residents interviewed previously, as well as citation trends and repeated issues that have come up in previous inspections. A review of complaint investigations since your last full inspection will also take place.
The team will inquire with the ombuds as well as the DSHS case manager, if you have a Medicaid contract, regarding any concerns or issues these individuals may have.
The licensing team is made up of registered nurses and other allied health personnel such as dieticians, social workers, occupational therapists, and others. Any clinical observations must be conducted by a registered nurse. While your point-of-contact is the team leader while the inspection team is onsite, later concerns or questions regarding the inspection process and regulatory issues should be shared to the inspection team’s supervisor, the field manager.
If you are new to the assisted living profession, please familiarize yourself with the DSHS website as well as the SOP manual that the DSHS licensors follow for every full inspection.
The next article will focus on steps to take to effectively initiate a full inspection, once licensors arrive at your front door. If you have questions on the inspection process, please email Vicki McNealley or call her at (800) 562-6170, extension 107.
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