Every finding on record at Area Agency on Aging of Western Arkansas, Inc.

On 04/07/25 at 2:30 PM, an entrance conference was conducted with Agency Representatives. The agency was informed that the purpose of the visit was to conduct a Medicare recertification survey for compliance with the Conditions of Participation for Home Health. The general nature of the survey process and expected length of survey were explained. On 04/10/25 at 2:30 PM, an exit survey was conducted with Agency Representatives. Preliminary findings of the survey were discussed. The Agency Representatives were given the opportunity to present additional information for the findings discussed. No additional information was presented.

A review of all current medications CFR(s): 484.55(c)(5) A review of all medications the patient is currently using in order to identify any potential adverse effects and drug reactions, including ineffective drug therapy, significant side effects, significant drug interactions, duplicate drug therapy, and noncompliance with drug therapy. This ELEMENT is not met as evidenced by: Based on clinical record review and staff interview, it was determined the Agency failed to ensure a process was in place for checking all medications for actual or potential drug interactions in 1 (#5) of 8 (#1-#8) clinical records reviewed. This failed practice by the Agency presented a risk to all patients on census as the failure to conduct a complete medication review potentially delayed decisions regarding the patient’s medication regimen. Findings follow: Review of clinical record #5 revealed a patient with a start of care of 03/14/24 and a diagnosis of Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 4. A document titled “Home Health Care Certification and Plan of Care” with a certification period of 03/09/2025-05/07/2025 revealed orders for “Medical marijuana 10 mg dose; Inhale 3 puff(s) orally every 2 to 4 hours as needed for anxiety; Depression, pain Start Date: 03/14/2024” No documentation in the clinical record to indicate medical marijuana had been checked for potential side effects or interactions. An interview on 04/10/24 at 2:30 PM with Agency Personnel #4 confirmed the failure to check medical marijuana for actual or potential drug side effects or interactions.