Section 325.20206. Surveys and investigations.

(1) The department shall conduct a survey and investigation of a nursing home for initial licensure within the 3-month period following receipt of the application or, in the case of renewals, within the 3-month period before the expiration date of a license. A license shall only be issued or renewed if the department, after completing such a survey and investigation, finds the facility to be in substantial compliance with the requirements of the code and these rules.

(2)     The department may  take  additional  visits,  inspections,  and investigations for the purpose of survey, evaluation, consultation, or enforcement of these rules and the code.

(3)    Surveys and investigations pursuant to this part may include, but are not limited to, all of the following:

(a)   Inspections of the facility and its operation and maintenance.

(b)    Inspection and copying of books, records, patient clinical records, and other documents maintained by the facility.

(c)      The acquisition of other information, including otherwise privileged or confidential information,  from  any  other   person  who  may  have information bearing on the applicant's or licensee's compliance or ability to comply with the applicable requirements for licensure.

(4)     When making a survey or investigation, the department representative or representatives shall present proper identification. For this purpose, "proper identification" means a card issued by the department certifying that the holder is an employee of the department.

History: 1981 AACS; 1983 AACS.