What should a documented agreement with the facility include prior to admission?

A documented agreement with the facility prior to admission should include rates and charges, as this is crucial for transparency and financial planning for both the facility and the prospective resident. By outlining all costs, including any additional fees for services, accommodations, or incidentals, the facility ensures that the resident and their family are fully informed about the financial obligations associated with the care they will receive. This helps prevent misunderstandings and disputes later on about billing practices and expectations.

While emergency protocols, staff qualifications, and cultural programs offered are valuable components of a resident’s care experience, they typically do not directly address the financial aspects that a documented agreement is designed to clarify. Financial agreements play a fundamental role in the admissions process by setting clear expectations regarding costs, which is essential for the decision-making process of the incoming resident and their family.