Pennsylvania Code & Bulletin
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA

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The Pennsylvania Code website reflects the Pennsylvania Code changes effective through 53 Pa.B. 8238 (December 30, 2023).

55 Pa. Code § 6000.1032. Applicability of section 417(c) of the MH/MR Act to health-care decisions.

§ 6000.1032. Applicability of section 417(c) of the MH/MR Act to health-care decisions.

 (a)  Notwithstanding that section 417(c) of the MH/MR Act (50 P.S. §  4417(c)), regarding powers and duties of directors, explicitly references only ‘‘elective surgery,’’ that section should be read as applicable to health care decisions generally.

 (b)  A facility director’s authority under section 417(c) of the MH/MR Act should be construed to include authority to make decisions regarding palliative care for persons in an end-stage (terminal) condition.

 (c)  For care provided in the MR facility itself, no surrogate consent is needed because 18 Pa.C.S. §  2713 (relating to neglect of care-dependent person) requires that necessary care and treatment be provided without it.

 (d)  For care outside the mental retardation facility, such as a doctor’s office or hospital, the primary care physician (PCP) and the specialist performing the procedure can serve as the two physicians (except in the rare circumstance where the PCP is a payroll employee of the MR facility) required under section 417(c) of the MH/MR Act.

APPENDIX A. [Reserved]



Source

   The provisions of this Appendix A adopted August 19, 1988, effective October 1, 1988, 18 Pa.B. 3703; reserved August 9, 1991, effective November 8, 1991, 21 Pa.B. 3595. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (131329) to (131333).

APPENDIX B
LICENSING WEIGHTING SYSTEM FOR VOCATIONAL FACILITIES
WEIGHTS OF REGULATIONS


General
Requirements
SubjectWeightRounded
Weight
2390.11Application5.125
2390.14(a)Labor & Industry—Fire Safety Approval8.338
2390.14(b)Written Annual Verification6.617
2390.15(a)Interstate Commerce—Fed. Wage & Hour Certificate5.586
2390.15(b)Intrastate Commerce—State Certificate5.305
2390.15(c)Interstate & Intrastate Commerce—Fed./State Certificate5.015
2390.16Public Eating & Drinking Certificate7.387
2390.17Written Statement of Purpose4.494
2390.18(a)Unusual Incident Report6.877
2390.18(a)Unusual Incident Report—24 hours5.786
2390.18(b)Unusual Incident Report—weekend5.716
2390.19(a)Abuse—Past 12 months8.819
2390.19(b)Abuse Reported—24 hours8.649
2390.19(c)Investigated Abuse—24 hours7.868
2390.19(c)Abuse Report—Support or Deny Allocation7.558
2390.19(c)Implement Change—Prevent Abuse8.609
2390.19(d)Criminal Abuse Reported Immediately8.769
2390.20Written Accident Prevention Policy7.878
2390.21(a)Discrimination7.287
2390.21(a)Civil & Legal Rights7.688
2390.21(b)Civil Rights Policy & Procedure6.927
2390.22(a)Governing Body4.875
2390.22(b)Governing Body—Financial Benefit4.084
2390.22(c)Conflict of Interest4.21
4
2390.22(d)Governing Body—Quarterly Meeting3.493
2390.22(e)Financial Reports—Review/Approval3.824
2390.22(f)Annual Program Report—Review/Approval4.124
2390.23Sound & Ethical Pract.4.905
StaffingSubjectWeightRounded
Weight
2390.32(a)Chief Executive Officer/Employed5.495
2390.32(a)Chief Executive Officer/Designee5.335
2390.32(b)Chief Executive Officer/Responsibilities6.346
2390.32(c)Chief Executive Officer/Qualifications4.605
2390.33(a)1:45 Program Specialist/Client Ratio6.126
2390.33(b)Program Specialist Responsibility5.916
2390.33(c)Program Specialist Qualification5.215
2390.34(a)One Production Manager5.586
2390.34(b)Production Manager Responsibility5.265
2390.34(c)Production Manager Qualifications4.675
2390.35(a)1:15 Floor Supervisor Ratio6.607
2390.35(b)Floor Supervisor Physically Present6.567
2390.35(c)Floor Supervisor Responsibility6.957
2390.35(d)Floor Supervisor Qualifications5.115
2390.36(a)1:10 Trainer Ratio6.296
2390.36(b)Trainer Responsibilities6.006
2390.36(c)Trainer Qualifications5.065
2390.37(a)Vocational Evaluator Employed5.536
2390.37(b)Vocational Evaluator Responsibilities5.405
2390.37(c)Vocational Evaluator Qualifications5.095
2390.38(a)Program Specialist & Floor Supervisor (ten or more clients) 5.676
2390.38(b)Qualifications—2 Staff Positions5.405
2390.39(a)2 Staff Present—10 or More Clients6.977
2390.39(b)1 Staff Present—Fewer than 10 Clients7.748
2390.39(c)1 Qualified Program Specialist—20 or more clients5.946
2390.40(a)Orientation for Staff6.547
2390.40(b)24 Hrs Staff Training5.425
2390.40(c)Records of Training on file4.154


Physical SiteSubjectWeightRounded
Weight
2390.51Accommodations for Physically Handicapped7.918
2390.52(a)80 Sq. Ft. Indoor Floor Space5.696
2390.52(b)60 Sq. Ft. Indoor Floor Space5.646
2390.53Outside Walks—Free of Hazards8.178
2390.54Combustible Supplies8.599
2390.55(a)Trash Removed—Once/Week6.977
2390.55(b)Insects/Rodents7.648
2390.56Hot & Cold Water—Bathroom & Kitchen7.878
2390.57Indoor Temperature—65° F-90° F7.227
2390.58Operable, Non-Coin Telephone6.647
2390.59Emergency Numbers Posted7.728
2390.60(a)First Aid Area6.507
2390.60(b)First Aid Area/Equipment7.127
2390.60(c)First Aid Accessible to Staff7.337
2390.60(d)First Aid Kit Contents7.327
2390.61Surfaces—Free of Hazards7.367
2390.62Sanitary Conditions Maintained7.798
2390.63Adequate Lighting8.088
2390.64Well-Secured Handrails8.068
2390.65Interior Stairs—Nonskid Surfaces7.658


General RequirementsSubjectWeightRounded
Weight
2390.66Landings Provided7.337
2390.67Conditions—Safe & Sanitary7.327
2390.68Hazardous Equipment—Guard & Safety Devices8.649
2390.69Protective Equipment Worn8.659
2390.70Equipment—Visual, Auditory & Tactile Signals8.138
2390.71(a)Ventilation7.327
2390.71(b)Mechanical Exhaust—Toxic, Dust & Odor8.498
2390.72(a)Passages & Work Aisles—& Unobstructed7.768
2390.72(b)Work aisles—36 inches wide6.456
2390.72(c)Work aisles—marked—2" wide5.626
2390.72(c)Visually Handicapped—Tactile Guides6.246
2390.73Elevator—labor & industry approval7.888
2390.74(a)Lavatories—physically handicapped7.367
2390.74(b)1:30 Toilet Ratio6.446
2390.74(c)Separate Lavatories for Men & Women5.926
2390.74(d)Lavatory—Required Equip.6.376
2390.75(a)(1)Food Protection & Storage8.378
2390.75(a)(2)Food—Proper Temperatures8.l78
2390.75(a)(3)Utensils—washed with mechanical dishwasher7.247
2390.75(a)(4)Mechanical dishwasher—required temperatures7.678
2390.75(a)(5)Mechanical dishwasher—manufacturers instructions6.927
2390.75(b)Dining Area5.335
2390.75(b)(1)Dining Area Clear6.887
2390.75(b)(2)Dining Area—Table & Chairs5.826


Fire SafetySubjectWeightRounded
Weight
2390.81Corridors & Exits Unobstructed8.428
2390.82(a)Emergency Evacuation Procedures7.888
2390.82(b)Fire Safety Inspection or Notification7.928
2390.83(a)Operable Fire Alarm8.569
2390.83(b)Fire Alarm Checked7.948
2390.83(b)Written Record of Fire Alarm Check7.017
2390.83(c)Notification for Repair 24 Hours7.858
2390.83(c)Written Procedure—Fire Safety7.588
2390.84(a)10 ABC Fire Extinguishers8.148
2390.84(b)Fire Extinguishers—100 Feet7.868
2390.84(c)10B Fire Extinguishers—Kitchen8.248
2390.84(d)Fire Extinguisher Under 45 Pounds—Mounted7.598
2390.84(e)Fire Extinguisher Over 45 Pounds—Wheeled Unit7.427
2390.84(f)Fire Extinguisher—Accessible8.148
2390.84(g)Fire Extinguisher—Inspection & Approval8.048
2390.85(a)Fire Drill—Every 90 Days7.738
2390.85(a)Written Fire Drill Record6.457
2390.85(b)Fire Drills—Different Times6.316
2390.85(b)Hypothetical Location—Different6.446
2390.85(c)Clients Evacuation—Fire Drill7.407
2390.85(d)Fire Alarms Tested7.568
2390.86Signs—EXIT—Plain and Legible7.908
2390.86Exits Marked7.838
2390.86Exits Sign Letters—3/4 Inches Wide6.767
2390.86Tactile Exit Markings7.187
2390.87Instructed in General Fire Safety7.407
ProgramSubjectWeightRounded
Weight
2390.91Activities for Clients5.996
2390.91Individual Written Program Plan Provided5.946
2390.9220% Remunerative Work5.295
2390.93Work Training—Development Program5.546
2390.94(a)Written Assessment—20 Days5.245
2390.94(b)Initial Assessment by Program Specialist or Vocational
Evaluator
5.105
2390.94(c)Copy of Initial Assessment4.925
2390.94(d)(1)Document of Client’s Disability6.406
2390.94(d)(2)Level of Vocational Functioning5.556
2390.94(d)(3)Vocational Interests5.175
2390.94(d)(4)Ability for Instructions5.956
2390.94(d)(5)Recommendations for Specific Areas of Training5.766


General
Requirements
SubjectWeightWeight
2390.94(e)Written Statement Signed5.145
2390.95(a)Individual Written Program Plan (IWPP) Developed—
30 Days
5.626
2390.95(b)IWPP Developed—Interdisciplinary Team5.445
2390.95(b)IWPP—Signature and Dated—Interdisciplinary Team4.444
2390.96(1)IWPP—Short Term Objectives5.606
2390.96(2)IWPP—Current Skill Level5.636
2390.96(3)IWPP—Time Frames5.135
2390.96(4)IWPP—Method of Evaluation5.215
2390.96(5)IWPP—Service Areas5.275
2390.96(6)IWPP—Staff Responsible5.425
2390.96(7)IWPP—Placement Potential5.235
2390.97(a)IWPP—Reviewed and Updated—65 days5.245
2390.97(b)IWPP—Reviewed and Updated—20 days4.955
2390.97(c)IWPP—Signed by Program Specialist & Client5.405
2390.97(d)IWPP—Reviewed and Rewritten Annually5.776
2390.97(d)IWPP—Signed and Dated Revised IWPP4.655
2390.98(a)IWPP—Copy in Client’s File5.185
2390.98(b)IWPP—Invitation to Client or Parent4.965
2390.98(c)IWPP—Provided Copy4.815
2390.99IWPP—Client Needs Met5.736
2390.100(1)Vocational Evaluation by Vocational Evaluator5.245
2390.100(2)Vocational Evaluation in Client’s File5.195
2390.100(3)(i)Vocational Evaluation of Client’s Vocational Level5.445
2390.100(3)(ii)Vocational Evaluation—Include Employers Objectives5.235
2390.100(3)(iii) Vocational Evaluation—Include Vocational Interests5.155
2390.100(3)(iv) Vocational Evaluation—Include Client’s Personal &
Social Adjustment Level
5.405
2390.100(3)(v)Vocational Evaluation—Work Attitude5.315
2390.100(3)(vi) Vocational Evaluation—Include Fatigue Level5.886
2390.100(3)(vii) Vocational Evaluation—Include Client’s Ability to
Follow Instructions
6.086
2390.100(3)(viii) Vocational Evaluation—Recommendation for Specific
Areas
5.726
2390.100(4)Vocational Evaluation—Signed Statement5.375
HealthSubjectWeightRounded
Weight
2390.101Communicable Disease8.378
2390.102First Aid Technique—1 Certified Staff Member8.158
2390.103Written Emergency Medical Plan7.928
2390.104Emergency Information Accessible8.278
2390.104Emergency Medical Information8.328
Admission
and
Placement
SubjectWeightRounded
Weight
2390.111(a)Client—Preadmission Interview5.245
2390.111(b)Notification—30 Days4.414
2390.111(b)Notification—Specify Service and Reason for Decision4.625
2390.111(c)Kept on File for 3 Years3.363
2390.112(a)Clients Oriented to Facility6.276
2390.112(a)Orientation Date—Client’s Record4.214
2390.112(b)Written Information Upon Admission5.816
2390.112(b)Written Statement in Client’s Record5.175
2390.113(b)Arrangements for Placement Services5.946
2390.113(b)Placement Services—Staff Responsibility5.465
2390.113(c)(1)Placement Services—Employer Information5.546
2390.113(c)(2)Placement Services—Notification5.566
2390.113(c)(3)Placement Services—Client Participation5.956
2390.113(c)(4)Placement Services—Clients Abilities6.296
2390.113(c)(5)Placement Services—Follow-Up Activities6.476
2390.113(d)Documents of Competitive Employment5.085
2390.113(e)Placement Services Component Written4.675


Client RecordsSubjectWeightRounded
Weight
2390.121Individual Record6.446
2390.121Legible, Dated and Signed5.816
2390.122Records Kept at Facility6.016
2390.122Records Kept 3 Years4.234
2390.123Confidential & Locked6.877
2390.124Information—Records6.607
2390.125Policy on Access to Records5.896
2390.126(a)Client/Parent/Guardian Access6.016
2390.126(b)Facility Responsible6.326
2390.127Written Consent—Release of Information6.466
Handicapped EmploymentSubjectWeightRounded
Weight
2390.141Written Documentation—Individual Client5.165
2390.143(a)Completed Work Performance Review5.305
2390.143(b)(1)Work Performance Review Quantity and Quality5.305
2390.143(b)(2)Work Performance Review Changes in Production5.075
2390.143(b)(3)Upward Movement to Competitive Employment5.415
2390.143(b)(4)Work Related Problems5.536
2390.143(c)Copy Provided4.935
2390.1441:20 Floor Supervisor Ratio6.416



Source

   The provisions of this Appendix B adopted August 19, 1988, effective October 1, 1988, 18 Pa.B. 3703.

Cross References

   This appendix cited in 55 Pa. Code §  6000.311 (relating to computation of weighted score).

Web Only Graphic

Source

   The provisions of this Appendix C adopted August 19, 1988, effective October 1, 1988, 18 Pa.B. 3715.

Web Only Graphic

Source

   The provisions of this Appendix D adopted August 19, 1988, effective October 1, 1988, 18 Pa.B. 3715.

APPENDIX E
INCIDENT MANAGEMENT COMPONENTS


 PROVIDERS/ENTITIES ARE TO:

 •  Promote the health, safety, rights and enhance the dignity of individuals receiving services.

 •  Develop provider-specific policy/procedures for incident management.

 •  Ensure that staff and others associated with the individual have proper orientation and training to respond to, report and prevent incidents.

 • Provide ongoing training to individuals and families on the recognition of abuse and neglect.

 • Ensure when incidents occur that affect a person’s health, safety or rights, that the people who are present:

 — Take prompt action to protect the person’s health, safety and rights. This includes separation of the target when the individual’s health and safety are jeopardized. This separation shall continue until an investigation is completed. In addition, the target shall not be permitted to work directly with any other service recipient during the investigation process. When the target is another individual receiving supports or services, and complete separation is not possible, the provider shall institute additional protections.

 — Notify the responsible person designated in provider policy.

 • Assign trained individual(s) Point Person(s) to whom incidents are reported when they occur and who will make certain that all immediate steps to assure health and safety have been implemented and follow the incident through closure.

 • Contact appropriate law enforcement agencies when there is suspicion that a crime has occurred.

 • Comply with all applicable laws, regulations and policies.

 • Conduct certified investigations.

 • Analyze the quality of investigations.

 • Respond to concerns from individuals/family about the reporting and investigation processes.

 • Inform the family of the incident unless otherwise indicated in the individual’s plan.

 • Notify the family of the findings of any investigation unless otherwise indicated in the individual’s plan.

 • Maintain an investigation file within the agency.

 • Create an incident management process which:

 — Designates an individual with overall responsibility for incident management.

 — Considers possible immediate and long-term effects to the individual resulting from an incident or multiple incidents.

 — Uses trend analyses to identify systemic issues.

 — Analyzes and shares information with relevant staff, including direct care staff.

 — Periodically assesses the effectiveness of the incident management process.

 — Monitors quality and responsiveness of all ancillary services (such as health, therapies, etc.) and acts to change vendors or subcontractors, or assists the individual to file available grievances or appeals procedures to secure appropriate services.

 COUNTIES ARE TO:

 • Promote the health, safety, rights and dignity of individuals receiving services.

 • Develop county policies and procedures necessary to implement this bulletin.

 • Have an administrative structure sufficient to meet mandates of this bulletin:

 — Designate an individual with overall responsibility for incident management.

 — Train staff in incident management procedures.

 — Assure that supports coordinators have proper orientation and training to respond to, document and prevent incidents.

 — Support providers with appropriate training and resources to meet the mandates of the bulletin.

 • Provide ongoing training to individuals, families, guardians, and advocates regarding their rights, roles and responsibilities that are outlined in this bulletin.

 • Provide training to individuals and families on the recognition of abuse and neglect.

 • Have the Incident Management Processes in this bulletin referenced in county/provider contracts.

 • Maintain an investigation file within the county.

 • Create an incident management process which:

 — Assures accuracy of incident reports.

 — Reviews and closes all provider generated incidents.

 — Reviews and analyzes data.

 — Identifies and implements individual and systemic changes based on data analysis.

 — Analyzes and shares information with relevant staff.

 — Regularly reviews trend and occurrence data compiled by providers.

 — Assesses provider’s incident management and investigative processes.

 — Assures provider compliance with plans of correction resulting from incidents and investigations.

 • Conduct certified investigations.

 • Analyze the quality of investigations.

 • Respond to concerns from individuals/family about the reporting and investigation processes.

 • In collaboration with the individual’s planning team, revise the individual’s plan as needed in response to issues identified through the incident management process.

 • Comply with all applicable laws, regulations and policies.

 • Coordinate with other agencies as necessary.

 • In those instances where the county is the initial reporter of the incident, the county will assume the responsibility of the point person.

 THE OFFICE OF MENTAL RETARDATION IS TO:

 • Promote the health, safety, rights and dignity of individuals receiving services.

 • Create an incident management review process which:

 — Maintains the statewide data system.

 — Analyzes data for statewide trends and issues.

 — Identifies issues and initiates systemic changes and provides periodic feedback.

 — Evaluates county and provider reports and analysis of trends.

 • Monitor implementation of this bulletin.

 • Support providers and counties with appropriate training to meet the mandate of the bulletin.

 • Certify investigators.

 • Provide support and technical assistance to counties to implement the incident reporting system.

 • Conduct certified investigations.

 • Analyze the quality of investigations.

 • Respond to concerns from individuals/families about the reporting and investigation processes.

 • Review and revise this bulletin as needed.

 • Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and policies.

 • Coordinate with other agencies as necessary.

Source

   The provisions of this Appendix E adopted February 27, 2004, effective February 21, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 1234.

Cross References

   This appendix cited in 55 Pa. Code §  6000.902 (relating to purpose).

APPENDIX F
RELATED LAWS, REGULATIONS AND POLICIES


 The incident management and reporting detailed in this subchapter are related to a variety of laws, regulations and policies. The applicable licensing regulations (and facilities licensed under those regulations) include:

 Related Laws:

 • The Mental Health and Mental Retardation Act of 1966 (50 P.S. § §  4101—4704)

 • Title XIX Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.A. § §  1396—1396v)

 • 18 Pa.C.S. §  2713 (relating to the neglect of care-dependent person)

 • The Child Protective Services Law (23 Pa.C.S. § §  6301—6385)

 • The Older Adults Protective Services Act (35 P.S. § §  10225.101—10225.5102)

 • Elder Care Payment Restitution Act (35 P.S. § §  10226.101—10226.107)

 • Early Intervention Services System Act (11 P.S. § §  875.101—875.503)

 • The Whistleblower Law (43 P.S. § §  1422—1428)

 Title 55 of the Pennsylvania Code.

 • Chapter 20—Relating to Licensure or Approval of Facilities and Agencies

 • Chapter 2380—Relating to Adult Training Facilities

 • Chapter 2390—Relating to Vocational Facilities

 • Chapter 3490—Relating to Child Protective Services

 • Chapter 3800—Relating to Child Residential and Day Treatment Facilities

 • Chapter 5310—Relating to Community Residential Rehabilitation Services for the Mentally Ill

 • Chapter 6400—Relating to Community Homes for Individuals with Mental Retardation

 • Chapter 6500—Relating to Family Living Homes

 • Chapter 6600—Relating to Intermediate Care Facilities for the Mentally Retarded

 Title 6 of the Pennsylvania Code (Aging).

 • Chapter 11—Relating to Older Adult Daily Living Centers

 Related Policy Guidelines:

 • Medical Assistance Bulletin—Revised Medical and Treatment Self-Directive Statement: Your Rights As a Patient In Pennsylvania: Making Decisions About Your Care and Treatment (effective June 19, 1998)

 • Mental Retardation Bulletin 00-98-08—Procedures for Substitute Health Care Decision Making (effective November 30, 1998)

 • Mental Retardation Bulletin 00-94-32—Assessments: Lifetime Medical History (effective December 6, 1994)

 • Mental Retardation Bulletin 00-03-01—Passage of Act 171 relating to the Older Adults Protective Services Act (OAPSA)

 ADDITIONAL REPORTING:

 In addition to the reporting methodologies described in this statement of policy, the following is provided as a guide to assist in identifying additional reporting. This does not fully define, nor is it intended to substitute for, the applicable statutes and regulations.

 Reportable incidents involving individuals who reside in facilities licensed as ICF/MRs (both state and privately-operated), are to be reported to the appropriate Regional Field Office of the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Division of Intermediate Care Facilities.

 Reportable incidents that occur in facilities licensed by OMR, involving individuals whose support needs are not funded through the Commonwealth or county mental retardation systems, are to be reported to whomever funds the individual’s support and to the Commonwealth/Regional Office of Mental Retardation. This includes individuals from other states, individuals who are funded by agencies not part of the mental retardation system and individuals whose support needs are privately funded.

   Neglect of care-dependent person (18 Pa.C.S. §  2713)

 The neglect of care-dependent person 18 Pa.C.S. §  2713 covers any adult who, due to physical or cognitive disability or impairment, requires assistance to meet his needs for food, shelter, clothing, personal care or health care. 18 Pa.C.S. §  2713 extends to certain listed facilities and to home health services provided to care-dependent persons in their residence. The statute criminalizes intentional, knowing or reckless conduct by a caregiver which results in bodily injury or serious bodily injury to a care-dependent person by the failure to provide treatment, care, goods or services necessary to preserve the health, safety or welfare of a care-dependent person for whom the caregiver is responsible to provide care. A caregiver may also be prosecuted if he intentionally or knowingly uses a physical restraint, a chemical restraint or medication on a care-dependent person, or isolates that person, contrary to law or regulation, such that bodily or serious bodily injury results.

 Anyone aware of possible violations of this may make a report to the appropriate law enforcement authorities. The reporting requirements of this bulletin are to be followed even if a report of a possible violation of this statute is made to law enforcement authorities. Copies of the statute were distributed via Mental Retardation Bulletin 00-95-25, issued December 26, 1995 and Mental Retardation Bulletin 00-97-06, issued August 29, 1997.

   The Child Protective Services Law (23 Pa.C.S. § §  6301—6385)

 The Child Protective Services Law (CPSL) establishes procedures for the reporting and investigation of suspected child abuse. Certain types of suspected child abuse must be reported to law enforcement officials for investigation of criminal offenses. Children under the age of 18 are covered by the act including those who receive supports and services from the mental retardation system. Providers covered within the scope of this bulletin are required to report suspected child abuse in accordance with the procedures established in the CPSL and the Protective services Regulations. The CPSL defines child abuse as any of the following when committed upon a child under 18 years of age by a parent, person responsible for a child’s welfare, an individual residing in the same home as a child or a paramour of a child’s parent.

 • Any recent act or failure to act that causes non-accidental serious physical injury.

 • Any act or failure to act that causes nonaccidental serious mental injury or sexual abuse or sexual exploitation.

 • Any recent act or series of such acts or failures to act that creates an imminent risk of serious physical injury or sexual abuse or sexual exploitation.

 • Serious physical neglect constituting prolonged or repeated lack of supervision or the failure to provide essentials of life including adequate medical care which endangers a child’s life or development or impairs the child’s functioning.

 Reports of suspected abuse are received by the Department of Human Service’s (DHS) ChildLine and Abuse Registry (800) 932-0313, which is the central register for all investigated reports of abuse. Individuals who come into contact with children in the course of practicing theirprofession are required to report when they have reasonable cause to suspect on the basis of their medical, professional or other training or experience, that a child is an abused child. Every facility or agency is required by the CPSL to funnel reports to the director or a designee to be promptly reported to ChildLine. The reporting, investigation and documentation requirements of this statement of policy must also be followed when a report of suspected child abuse is made. It must be noted that the definition of abuse found in the CPSL differs greatly from the definition promulgated in this statement. Because of this difference it is possible that an allegation may be ‘‘unconfirmed’’ in terms of the CPSL but still substantiated with reference to these guidelines. Likewise, the scope of reports subject to investigation differs so it is important to be familiar with the requirements of the CPSL.

   The Older Adults Protective Services Act (35 P.S. § §  10225.101—  10225.5102)

 The Older Adults Protective Services Act (OAPSA) of 1987 was enacted to protect all Pennsylvanians age 60 and older. The OAPSA established a detailed system for reporting and investigating suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation, and abandonment for care-dependent individuals. Act 13 was signed into law in 1997 as an amendment to the OAPSA. Unlike the other provisions of OAPSA that applied only to adults age 60 and above, Act 13 applied to adults age 18 and above who were considered ‘‘care-dependent’’ individuals and to ‘‘care-dependent’’ individuals under age 18 if they resided in a facility serving individuals over 18. Employees or administrators of a covered entity reported suspected abuse incidents to the local Area Agency on Aging, where indicated, to the Pennsylvania Department of Aging and to local law enforcement pursuant to Chapter 7 of the OAPSA. These requirements existed in addition to the reporting procedures contained in this Bulletin. In 2002, the OAPSA was further amended by the Elder Care Payment Restitution Act.

   The Elder Care Payment Restitution Act (35 P.S. § §  10226.101—10226.107)

 The Elder Care Payment Restitution Act eliminated the requirements of Act 13 for which suspected abuse of individuals with mental retardation under the age of 60 was reported to the Area Agency on Aging and in some cases, to the Department of Aging. This act became effective February 9, 2003.

   Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA)  (Public Law 104-191)

 HIPAA and the applicable regulations at 45 CFR Parts 160 and 164 (Privacy Rule) established a set of National standards for the protection of personal health information. The Privacy Rule addresses the use and disclosure of individuals’ health information or ‘‘protected health information’’ by organizations subject to the Privacy Rule or ‘‘covered entities.’’ The Privacy Rule establishes standards for individuals’ rights to understand and control how their personal health information is used. The U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Civil Rights is responsible to implement and enforce the Privacy Rule.

REPORTING MATRIX

 The following is provided as a guide to assist in identifying additional reporting. This does not fully define, nor is it intended to substitute for, the applicable statutes and regulations.

Reportable Incident Report
to
OMR
Report
to
County1
Report to AAA2 If 60 or older
Report to
ChildLine if
under 18
PA Department of
Aging3 If 60 or
older
DOH
Local Law
Enforcement
Acts
28/264
Death X X If suspicious If suspicious If suspicious If ICF/MR If suspicious If the result of neglect
Disease Reportable
to the Department of Health
X XX
Emergency Closure X XIf ICF/MR
Emergency Room Visit X XIf ICF/MR
Fire X XIf ICF/MR
Hospitalization X XIf ICF/MR
Individual to Individual Abuse X XIf ICF/MR
Injury requiring treatment beyond first aid X XIf ICF/MR
Law Enforcement Activity X XIf ICF/MR
Medication Error X XIf ICF/MR
Missing Person X XIf ICF/MR If person is at risk
Misuse of Funds X X If exploitationIf ICF/MR If it appears that a crime has occurred
Neglect X X X X If serious bodily injury or serious physical injury If ICF/MR If serious bodily injury or serious physical injury If serious bodily injury
Physical Abuse X X X X If serious bodily injury If ICF/MR If serious bodily injury or serious physical injury
Psychiatric Hospitalization X XIf ICF/MR
Psychological Abuse X X X XIf ICF/MR
Restraint X XIf ICF/MRIf serious bodily injury
Rights Violation X XIf ICF/MR
Sexual Abuse X X X X X If ICF/MR X
Suicide Attempt X XIf ICF/MR
Verbal Abuse X X XIf ICF/MR

   



   1 If an individual is not funded by OMR or by County MR services a report should be made to the funding agent.
2 Allegations of abuse or neglect involving children under 18 who reside in a facility that primarily serves adults must be reported to Child Line.
3 Allegations of abuse or neglect involving children under 18 who reside in a facility that primarily serves adults must be reported to Child Line.
4 Reporting under Acts 28/26 is only mandated for Commonwealth employees.

Source

   The provisions of this Appendix F adopted February 27, 2004, effective February 21, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 1234.

Cross References

   This appendix cited in; and 55 Pa. Code §  6000.951 (relating to initial reporter).

APPENDIX G
VICTIM’S ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS


 When individuals are abused, neglected, injured or victims of crimes, there are resources to assist them physically, emotionally, financially and legally. Organizations have been developed based on the need to support victims through the criminal justice system, recognizing that victim’s needs are oftentimes overlooked. Individuals with disabilities who fall victim to crimes, especially physical violence and sexual assaults, should be encouraged and assisted to access these resources. It is suggested that providers develop relationships with local entities and assist individuals in accessing such services when appropriate.

 There are two main types of victim assistance programs: system and community-based organizations. System-based programs that generally operate out of a District Attorney’s office provide notification to victims/witnesses of court proceedings. Community based programs are designed to provide support and assistance to victims. Usually, the programs fall under the categories of:

 • Rape Crisis/Sexual Assault programs providing services to victims and their family/supporters. Domestic Violence programs provide counseling and temporary housing to victims, as needed.

 • Crime Victim Services provide supports and assistance to victims of crimes excluding sexual assaults and domestic violence.

 There are domestic violence centers, rape crisis centers and victim assistance offices throughout the Commonwealth. In order to locate the most appropriate resource for individuals, you may contact the following statewide organizations. Additional information regarding local resources is available through these organizations:

 PA Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD)
(717) 787-2040

 PA Coalition Against Rape (PCAR)
(800) 692-7445
(717) 728-9740

 PA Coalition Against Domestic Violence (PCADV)
(800) 932-4632

 Office of Victim Advocate (crime victim compensation)
(717) 783-7501

 Pennsylvania Protection and Advocacy (PP&A)
(800) 692-7443

Source

   The provisions of this Appendix G adopted February 27, 2004, effective February 21, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 1234.

Cross References

   This appendix cited in 55 Pa. Code §  6000.921 (relating to categories of incidents).

APPENDIX H
ABBREVIATED INCIDENT REPORT



Medication Error

 The data entry screen is to include the following information:

 • DEMOGRAPHICS (pre-populated from HCSIS demographics)

 Name of the individual for whom the Medication Error is being reported.

 Individual’s Base Service Unit (BSU) number.rr1;sup

   1 If the individual is not registered with a County MH/MR Program, the report is to list the county or state where the person is/was a resident. 1

 • CATEGORIZATION

 Secondary category of Medication Error.

 Date and time when the incident was recognized/discovered.

 • MEDICATION ERROR INCIDENT INFORMATION

 Staff position of the person giving medication.

 Name of medication(s).

 Indication if the error occurred over multiple consecutive administrations.

 The reason(s) why the Medication Error occurred.

 The response(s) to the Medication Error.

 The agency system response to prevent this type of error from occurring in the future.

 Any additional comments.

 Indication if another Incident Report was filed as a result of the Medication Error.

 If another Incident Report was filed, the Incident ID number.

 In addition to the required information, providers may choose to include optional information to further analyze their medication errors.

 • OPTIONAL MEDICATION ERROR INFORMATION

 The name or unique identifier of person making the Medication Error.

 Indication if the person making the Medication Error was working longer than their regular work hours at the time of the Medication Error.

 The length of time the staff person who made the Medication Error has been giving medications.

 The number of medications supposed to be given to this person at the same time as the Medication Error was made including the medication when the Medication Error was made.

 The number of medications this person receives on a daily basis.

 The number of people that the staff person who made the Medication Error has to give medications to around the same time as the Medication Error occurred.

Source

   The provisions of this Appendix H adopted February 27, 2004, effective February 21, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 1234.

Cross References

   This appendix cited in 55 Pa. Code §  6000.923 (relating to incidents to be reported within 72 hours); and 55 Pa. Code §  6000.924 (relating to incident management contingency plan).

APPENDIX I
ABBREVIATED INCIDENT REPORT



Restraint


 The data entry screen is to include the following information:

 • DEMOGRAPHICS (prepopulated from HCSIS demographics)

 Name of the individual for whom the Restraint was used.

 Individual’s Base Service Unit (BSU) number.r1;sup

   1 If the individual is not registered with a County MH/MR Program, the report is to list the county or state where the person is/was a resident. 1

 • CATEGORIZATION

 Secondary category of Restraint.

 Date of the Restraint.

 Time in Restraint.

 Time out of Restraint.

 • RESTRAINT INCIDENT INFORMATION

 Restraint agent.

 Antecedent to the Restraint.

 Reason for the Restraint.

 Indication if the Restraint was used on a planned or emergency basis.

 Authorizing Staff.

 Indication if Prone (face down) Restraint was used.

 Indication if another Incident Report was filed as a result of the Restraint.

 If another Incident Report was filed the Incident ID number.

Source

   The provisions of this Appendix I adopted February 27, 2004, effective February 21, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 1234.

Cross References

   This appendix cited in 55 Pa. Code §  6000.923 (relating to incidents to be reported within 72 hours).

APPENDIX J
INCIDENT MANAGEMENT CONTINGENCY PLAN


 In the event that a provider or county or entity is unable to report a 24-hour incident through the Home and Community Services Information System (HCSIS), faxed contingency reporting is to be utilized.

 Incidents that are reported via fax are to be recorded on a copy of the attached Incident Management Contingency Form. This reporting method will satisfy regulatory requirements to report an incident. In the event of a serious incident (such as abuse with injury, suspicious death), a provider should also call its OMR Regional Office and County MH/MR Program to alert OMR and the county of the incident.

 Once complete, the Incident Management Contingency Form is to be faxed to the appropriate OMR Regional Office and to the County MH/MR Program. The form should have a fax cover sheet that identifies the fax as a reportable incident and states the reason that the report needed to be faxed. Faxing the Incident Management Contingency Form is a short-term solution for meeting regulatory requirements for reporting incidents; however, once access to HCSIS can be established, the incident must be entered into HCSIS.

 CONTACT INFORMATION:

 OMR Regional Office Fax Numbers:

 • Northeast Region (570) 963-3177

 • Southeast Region (215) 560-3043

 • Central Region (717) 772-6483

 • Western Region (412) 565-5479

 OMR Regional Office Phone Numbers:

 • Northeast Region (570) 963-4391

 • Southeast Region (215) 560-2242

 • Central Region (717) 772-6507

 • Western Region (412) 565-5144

 

Source

   The provisions of this Appendix J adopted February 27, 2004, effective February 21, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 1234.

Cross References

   This appendix cited in 55 Pa. Code §  6000.924 (relating to incident management contingency plan).

APPENDIX K
STANDARDIZED INCIDENT REPORT


 FIRST SECTION (completed within 24 hours)

 The First Section is to include the following information:

 • DEMOGRAPHICS (pre-populated from HCSIS demographics)

 Name of the individual involved/affected by the incident.

 Individual’s Base Service Unit (BSU) number.ak1;sup

   1 If the individual is not registered with a County MH/MR Program, the report is to list the county or state where the person is/was a resident. 1

 County of Registration.

 Gender.

 Individual’s date of birth.

 MR Diagnosis.

 Home address of the individual.

 Living Arrangement of the individual.

 Name and address of the reporting entity.

 Location where the incident occurred.

 Name of the point person.

 • CATEGORIZATION

 Date and time when the incident was recognized/discovered.

 Primary and secondary category of the incident.

 Determination if an investigation is required or desired.

 Name of the Certified Investigator assigned, if the incident requires investigation.

 • HEALTH AND SAFETY ASSURANCE

 Description of the immediate and subsequent steps taken by the point person or other representatives of the provider to ensure the individual’s health, safety and response to the incident, including date, time and by whom those steps were taken.

 • INCIDENT DESCRIPTION

 Narrative description of the incident completed by staff or other person(s) who were present when the incident occurred or who discovered that an incident had occurred.ak2;sup

   2 Providers may summarize the narrative description, but the written statements of the person(s) directly invilved are to be available for review, if needed. 2

 FINAL SECTION (completed within 30 days)

 The reporting entity will complete the Final Section of the incident report within 30 days from the date of the incident or of the date the provider learns of the incident (unless an extension has been made). The Final Section will retain all of the preceding information from the First Section and will add:

 Name of the initial reporter.

 Name of the individual’s supports coordinator (pre-populated).

 Whether CPR was administered.

 Weather the Heimlich was administered.

 If 911 was called, the time, date and person who called.

 If the incident involves an illness or injury, the name of the practitioner/facility by whom the individual was treated initially, the date and time of the initial contact with a health-care/medical practitioner, the nature/content of the initial treatment/evaluation, and the nature of, date of, time of, and practitioner involved in any subsequent treatments, evaluations.

 In the event of a death, indication if the individual was in hospice care, had a diagnosis of terminal illness, if a ‘‘Do Not Resuscitate’’ order was in effect, if the coroner was contacted, if an autopsy has been or will be performed.

 Identification of all persons to whom the incident notification has been (or will be) submitted (i.e., family, law enforcement agency), the date the notification has been made, and the person who has/will notify the necessary parties.

 Update of incident description, as needed.

 Specific description of any injury received by the individual.

 Present status of the individual in reference to the incident.

 Identification of other persons who may have witnessed or been directly involved in the incident.

 Specific signs and symptoms of any illness (acute or chronic) which may be contributory to the incident.

 Any relevant background information on the individual, including medical history and diagnoses.

 Date on which the investigation began, if required.

 Summary of the investigator’s findings and conclusions, if required.

 If the incident involves an allegation of abuse or neglect, the conclusion reached on the basis of the investigation (i.e., the allegation is confirmed, not confirmed, inconclusive) and the status of the target.

 Description of the steps taken by the provider in response to the conclusions reached as a result of the investigation.

 If the incident involves an injury of unknown origin, confirmation of the cause (if one has been identified) and steps taken to prevent recurrence.

 Description of any changes in the individual’s plan of support necessitated by or in response to the incident.

 Verification by the provider that all necessary corrective actions have been identified.

 If any corrective action cannot/has not been completed by the time the Final Section is submitted, the expected date of completion must be provided along with the identity of the person responsible for carrying the extended action through to completion.

 If the nature of the incident requires contact with local law enforcement, the name and department/office of the person(s) contacted, the date of the contact, the name of the person who initiated the contact, and a description of any steps taken by law enforcement officials.

 If the individual has been hospitalized, the date of admission, name of the hospital, the admitting diagnosis(es), indication if the admission was from the emergency room, what occurred during the hospitalization, change in voluntary/involuntary status, the date of discharge, the discharge diagnosis(es), an indication that the Hospital Discharge Instructions were provided, what changed after discharge, current status and any plans for subsequent medical follow-up.

 If the individual is deceased, the Final Section is to be supplemented by a hard copy of the following:ak3;sup

   3 Documents, which are not immediately available, must be forwarded to the appropriate parties (county and/or OMR Regional Office) as they become available. If, after attempting to acquire the document, it is determined to be unobtainable, the expecting party will be notified. 3

 — Lifetime medical history.

 — Copy of the Death Certificate.

 — Autopsy Report, if one has been completed.

 — Discharge Summary from the final hospitalization, if the individual died while hospitalized.

 — Results of the most recent physical examination.

 — Most recent Health and Medical assessments.

 Name of the family member notified of the results of the investigation, if required.

 The incident classification the provider believes is most appropriate.

 The date and time the provider believes is most appropriate.

 After final submission by the provider, the county and OMR will perform a management review and close the incident.

Source

   The provisions of this Appendix K adopted February 27, 2004, effective February 21, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 1234.

Cross References

   This appendix cited in 55 Pa. Code §  6000.961 (relating to standardized incident report).1 If the individual is not registered with a County MH/MR Program, the report is to list the county or state where the person is/was a resident.



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