(1) Before a home transfers or discharges a resident, the home must give the resident and the resident's representative a written thirty day notification informing them of the transfer or discharge. The home must also make a reasonable effort to notify, if known, any interested family member. The written notification must be in a language and manner the resident understands and include the following:
(a) The reason for transfer or discharge;
(b) The effective date of transfer or discharge;
(c) The location where the resident is transferred or discharged if known at the time of the thirty-day discharge notice;
(d) The name, address, and telephone number of the state long-term care ombuds;
(e) For residents with developmental disabilities, the mailing address and telephone number of the agency responsible for the protection and advocacy of individuals with a developmental disability; and
(f) For residents with mental illness, the mailing address and telephone number of the agency responsible for the protection and advocacy of individuals with mental illness.
(2) The home may make the notice as soon as practicable before transfer or discharge when:
(a) The safety and health of the individuals in the home would be endangered;
(b) An immediate transfer or discharge is required by the resident's urgent medical needs; or
(c) The resident has been absent from the home for thirty or more days.
(3) A copy of the written notification must be in the resident's records.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
70.128.040 and
70.128.060. WSR 21-11-074, § 388-76-10616, filed 5/17/21, effective 8/1/21.]