Sec. 10.07.22.17. Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation

A. The hospice house shall develop and implement policies and procedures prohibiting abuse, neglect, and exploitation of hospice house patients.

B. Reports of Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation. An employee of the hospice house who believes that a patient has been subjected to abuse, neglect, or exploitation shall report the alleged abuse, neglect, or exploitation within 24 hours to:

(1) The appropriate local Department of Social Services, Adult Protective Services office, or Child Protective Services; and

(2) One of the following:

(a) A local law enforcement agency; or

(b) The Office of Health Care Quality.

C. Investigations. The hospice house shall:

(1) Thoroughly investigate all allegations of abuse, neglect, or exploitation and maintain on-site written documentation of the investigation; and

(2) Take appropriate action to prevent further incidents of abuse, neglect, or exploitation while the investigation is in progress.

D. Immunity from Civil Liability; An individual who, acting in good faith, makes a report under this regulation has immunity from liability as described in Health-General Article, §19-347(g), Annotated Code of Maryland.

E. Notice. The hospice house shall post signs that set forth the reporting requirements stated in §B of this regulation, conspicuously in the employee and public areas of the facility.