What is the purpose of a Hospice Waiver?
Many of us are very frustrated with recent State of California statewide requirements for exceptions for hospice care in assisted living. The whole idea behind the original Hospice Waiver was to eliminate the need for numerous exceptions. Providers must now have an exception for:
1. Any “prohibited” conditions such as the progression of a pressure sore from stage 2 to stage 3.
2. Any resident who is “total care” meaning the resident requires assistance with all activities of daily living. The majority of residents get to this point during the last days of life.
I understand where licensing is coming from. They are trying to ensure that dependent residents receive appropriate care. While the vast majority of providers provide outstanding care, there are those that are in over their heads when complexities of care such as these arise. However, this exception method is burdensome not only to providers, but also to CCL staff who are already spread so thin.
To remain compliant, please be aware of the need to apply for these exceptions.
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