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The California Death Report form is a critical document designed to ensure that the passing of clients in care facilities is handled with the utmost diligence and transparency. When a client dies, the responsible parties, including the facility and placement agency, must act quickly. They are required to notify the licensing agency by the next working day. This form captures essential information, including the client’s name, date of birth, and the circumstances surrounding their death. It prompts the facility to describe the immediate cause of death and any contributing conditions, which is vital for understanding the context of the incident. Additionally, it asks for details about any medical treatment provided and the actions taken immediately following the death. This ensures that all necessary protocols are followed and that the appropriate agencies, such as law enforcement and protective services, are informed. By retaining a copy of this report in the client’s file, facilities maintain a record that supports accountability and compliance with state regulations. Ultimately, the completion of this form not only fulfills legal obligations but also reflects a commitment to the care and respect owed to clients and their families during a profoundly sensitive time.

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STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES

 

COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION

DEATH REPORT

INSTRUCTIONS : NOTIFY LICENSING AGENCY, PLACEMENT AGENCY AND

LICENSEE MUST REPORT THE DEATH OF A CLIENT

 

RESPONSIBLE PERSONS, IF ANY, BY NEXT WORKING DAY.

 

 

 

 

 

 

OF ANY CAUSE, REGARDLESS OF WHERE THE

 

SUBMIT WRITTEN REPORT WITHIN 7 DAYS OF OCCURRENCE.

DEATH OCCURRED.

 

RETAIN COPY OF REPORT IN CLIENT’S FILE.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NAME OF FACILITY

 

FACILITY FILE NUMBER

 

TELEPHONE NUMBER

 

 

 

 

 

(

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ADDRESS

 

CITY, STATE, ZIP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CLIENT’S NAME

 

D.O.B.

SEX

DATE OF ADMISSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DATE AND TIME OF DEATH

 

PLACE OF DEATH

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DESCRIBE IMMEDIATE CAUSE OF DEATH (IF CORONER REPORT MADE, SEND COPY WITHIN 30 DAYS):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DESCRIBE CONDITIONS PRIOR TO OR CONTRIBUTING TO DEATH:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EXPLAIN WHAT IMMEDIATE ACTION WAS TAKEN (INCLUDE PERSONS CONTACTED):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MEDICAL TREATMENT NECESSARY? YES NO

IF YES, GIVE NATURE OF TREATMENT:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NAME OF ATTENDING PHYSICIAN

NAME OF MORTICIAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NAME AND TITLE

 

 

 

 

 

DATE

REPORT SUBMITTED BY:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NAME AND TITLE

 

 

 

 

 

DATE

REPORT REVIEWED/APPROVED BY:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AGENCIES/INDIVIDUALS NOTIFIED (SPECIFY NAME AND TELEPHONE NUMBER)

LICENSING______________________________________ ADULT/CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES________________________

LONG TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN___________________ PARENT/GUARDIAN/CONSERVATOR__________________________

LAW ENFORCEMENT_____________________________ PLACEMENT AGENCY______________________________________

LIC 624A (7/99)

Form Specifications

Fact Name Description
Mandatory Reporting The death of a client must be reported by the licensee, responsible persons, and the placement agency by the next working day.
Written Report Deadline A written report must be submitted within 7 days of the death occurrence.
Retention Requirement Facilities are required to retain a copy of the death report in the client’s file for record-keeping purposes.
Immediate Cause of Death The report must describe the immediate cause of death. If a coroner's report is available, a copy must be sent within 30 days.
Conditions Contributing to Death Details about any conditions prior to or contributing to the client's death must be included in the report.
Medical Treatment Inquiry The report must indicate whether medical treatment was necessary and provide details if applicable.
Governing Laws The California Death Report form is governed by California Health and Safety Code Section 1569.158 and California Code of Regulations, Title 22.

Ca Death Report: Usage Guidelines

Once the Ca Death Report form is completed, it must be submitted to the appropriate licensing agency, placement agency, and licensee. It is crucial to ensure that all required information is accurately filled out to facilitate the review process. Retaining a copy of the report in the client’s file is also necessary for record-keeping purposes.

  1. Begin by entering the name of the facility at the top of the form.
  2. Fill in the facility file number and telephone number.
  3. Provide the address, city, state, and ZIP code of the facility.
  4. Next, enter the client’s name and date of birth.
  5. Indicate the sex of the client.
  6. Record the date of admission to the facility.
  7. Specify the date and time of death.
  8. Identify the place of death.
  9. Describe the immediate cause of death. If a coroner's report exists, mention that a copy will be sent within 30 days.
  10. Outline the conditions prior to or contributing to death.
  11. Explain the immediate action taken following the death, including the names of persons contacted.
  12. Indicate whether medical treatment was necessary by checking "Yes" or "No". If "Yes," provide details about the nature of the treatment.
  13. List the name of the attending physician.
  14. Fill in the name of the mortician.
  15. Provide your name and title as the person submitting the report.
  16. Enter the date the report is submitted.
  17. Include the name and title of the person who reviewed or approved the report.
  18. Notify the relevant agencies or individuals by specifying their names and telephone numbers in the designated section.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the purpose of the California Death Report form?

The California Death Report form is used to notify the appropriate authorities about the death of a client in a care facility. It ensures that the licensing agency, placement agency, and other responsible parties are informed promptly. The form must be submitted within seven days of the occurrence of the death, regardless of the cause or location of the event.

Who is responsible for submitting the California Death Report?

The licensee of the facility is responsible for submitting the California Death Report. Additionally, any responsible persons, if applicable, must ensure that the report is filed by the next working day following the death. This requirement emphasizes the importance of timely communication regarding client deaths.

What information is required on the form?

The form requires detailed information, including the name of the facility, facility file number, client’s name, date of birth, sex, date of admission, date and time of death, and place of death. It also asks for a description of the immediate cause of death, any contributing conditions, actions taken immediately after the death, and whether medical treatment was necessary.

What should be done if a coroner's report is available?

If a coroner's report is made, a copy must be submitted along with the California Death Report within 30 days of the occurrence. This ensures that all relevant information regarding the cause of death is available for review by the licensing agency and other involved parties.

How should the report be submitted?

What happens if the report is not submitted on time?

Failure to submit the California Death Report within the specified time frames may result in penalties for the facility. It is crucial to adhere to the reporting requirements to avoid potential legal issues and ensure compliance with state regulations.

Common mistakes

  1. Failing to notify the necessary agencies in a timely manner. The instructions clearly state that the licensing agency, placement agency, and licensee must be informed of the death by the next working day. Delays can lead to complications in processing the report.

  2. Not providing complete and accurate information about the client. Details such as the client's name, date of birth, and place of death are crucial. Incomplete information can hinder the investigation and documentation process.

  3. Neglecting to describe the immediate cause of death adequately. If a coroner's report exists, it should be attached within 30 days. A vague description can lead to misunderstandings regarding the circumstances surrounding the death.

  4. Overlooking the section on conditions contributing to death. This part is essential for understanding the context of the death. Providing insufficient detail here can result in a lack of clarity for those reviewing the report.

  5. Failing to document immediate actions taken after the death. It's important to include who was contacted and what steps were taken. This information is vital for accountability and transparency.

  6. Not retaining a copy of the report in the client's file. Keeping a record is essential for future reference and compliance. Without it, there may be challenges in addressing any follow-up questions or concerns.

Documents used along the form

When a death occurs, especially in a care facility, several documents may be required in addition to the California Death Report form. These documents help ensure that all legal and procedural obligations are met. Below is a list of forms that are often used in conjunction with the Death Report.

  • Coroner's Report: This document provides an official account of the cause of death, particularly if an autopsy is performed. It is crucial for legal and medical records.
  • Incident Report: This report details the circumstances surrounding the death, including any incidents that may have contributed. It is important for internal reviews and compliance.
  • Medical Records: These records include the client's health history, treatments received, and any medications prescribed. They are essential for understanding the medical context of the death.
  • Notification Letters: Letters sent to family members and relevant agencies inform them of the death. These should be clear and compassionate, providing necessary details.
  • Licensing Agency Notification: A formal notice to the licensing agency is often required to comply with state regulations. This ensures that the agency is aware of the situation.
  • Facility Report: This internal document summarizes the events leading up to the death and any actions taken by staff. It is used for review and training purposes.
  • Death Certificate: Issued by the state, this legal document officially records the death. It is often needed for burial or cremation and for settling the deceased's estate.
  • Insurance Claims: If applicable, forms for life insurance or other claims may need to be completed to ensure that financial matters are handled appropriately.
  • Witness Statements: Statements from individuals present at the time of death can provide additional context. These are helpful for investigations or inquiries.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in addressing the legal, medical, and emotional aspects of a death in a care setting. Properly managing these forms can provide clarity and support for all parties involved during a difficult time.

Similar forms

  • Death Certificate: This document officially records the details of a person's death, including the cause, date, and place of death. Like the Ca Death Report, it requires accurate information about the deceased and is often used for legal and administrative purposes.
  • Autopsy Report: An autopsy report provides detailed findings from an examination of the body after death. Similar to the Ca Death Report, it includes information about the cause of death and any contributing conditions, which may be relevant for further investigation.
  • Incident Report: An incident report documents any unusual occurrences, including deaths, within a facility. This report captures immediate actions taken and notifications made, paralleling the requirements of the Ca Death Report.
  • Medical Records: Medical records contain comprehensive details about a patient's health history, treatments, and outcomes. They share similarities with the Ca Death Report by providing context regarding the conditions leading to death and any medical interventions.
  • Notification of Death to Family: This document informs family members of a client's death. It is similar to the Ca Death Report in that it must be completed promptly and accurately to ensure all responsible parties are informed.
  • State Reporting Forms: Various state-specific forms may be required to report deaths in different contexts, such as nursing homes or assisted living facilities. These forms often ask for similar information as the Ca Death Report, ensuring compliance with state regulations.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the California Death Report form, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Below is a list of important actions to take and avoid during this process.

  • Do notify the licensing agency, placement agency, and licensee of the client's death by the next working day.
  • Do submit a written report within 7 days of the occurrence of death.
  • Do retain a copy of the report in the client’s file for future reference.
  • Do provide complete and accurate information regarding the immediate cause of death.
  • Do describe any conditions that may have contributed to the death in detail.
  • Don't delay reporting the death to the relevant agencies.
  • Don't omit any medical treatment information if applicable.
  • Don't leave out the names of individuals or agencies notified in the report.
  • Don't forget to include the date the report was submitted and who reviewed or approved it.

Adhering to these guidelines is crucial for compliance with state regulations and for ensuring that all necessary parties are informed promptly.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the California Death Report form can lead to confusion and errors in reporting. Here are seven common misconceptions:

  • Only certain types of deaths need to be reported. Many believe that only deaths due to specific causes require a report. In reality, all client deaths must be reported, regardless of the cause.
  • The report can be submitted at any time. Some think that there is no urgency in submitting the report. However, it must be submitted within 7 days of the death occurrence.
  • Only the facility manager needs to fill out the report. This is incorrect. The report must be completed by the responsible person, which could be anyone designated by the facility.
  • Medical treatment details are optional. Many assume that providing details about medical treatment is not necessary. In fact, if medical treatment was necessary, it must be included in the report.
  • Notification of agencies can be done later. Some believe that notifying relevant agencies can wait. The licensing agency, placement agency, and others must be notified by the next working day.
  • A coroner’s report is not needed if the cause of death is known. This is misleading. If a coroner's report is made, a copy must be sent within 30 days, regardless of whether the cause of death is known.
  • Only the death report is required. Some think that submitting the death report is sufficient. However, retaining a copy in the client’s file is also mandatory.

Key takeaways

Filling out the California Death Report form is a critical responsibility for those involved in the care of clients. Here are some key takeaways to ensure proper completion and use of the form:

  • Timeliness is essential. Notify the licensing agency, placement agency, and any responsible persons about the client’s death by the next working day.
  • Written reports are mandatory. Submit a written report within 7 days of the death occurrence, retaining a copy in the client's file for record-keeping.
  • Detail is crucial. Accurately describe the immediate cause of death and any conditions that contributed to it. If a coroner’s report is available, include a copy within 30 days.
  • Immediate actions must be documented. Explain what actions were taken immediately following the death, including the names of individuals contacted.
  • Medical treatment information is required. If medical treatment was necessary, specify the nature of the treatment provided.
  • Notification of relevant parties is important. List all agencies and individuals notified, including their names and telephone numbers, to ensure comprehensive communication.