Assisted living providers must send a Disclosure of Special Care Status to the Office of Ombudsman for Long-term Care when applicable.

The requirement is not new. However, it is an excellent time to update and send this disclosure if it applies to your setting. The Disclosure of Special Care Status is required of any assisted living with dementia care setting. 

All assisted living facilities with dementia care licensees must provide a written disclosure to the following:

• The commissioner of health, if requested;
• The Office of Ombudsman for Long-Term Care; and
• Each person seeking placement within a residence, or the person's legal and designated representatives, before an agreement to provide the care is entered into.

The AL Rules in 4659.0040 also require a licensee to provide written disclosure to the Ombudsman within 30 calendar days of receiving an assisted living facility with a dementia care license.

The disclosure shall contain the following information:

• A statement of the overall philosophy and how it reflects the special needs of residents with Alzheimer's disease or other dementias;
• The criteria for determining who may reside in the secured dementia care unit as defined in section 144G.08, subdivision 62;
• The process used for assessment and establishment of the service plan, including how the plan is responsive to changes in the resident's condition;
• Staffing credentials, job descriptions, and staff duties and availability, including any training specific to dementia;
• Physical environment as well as design and security features that specifically address the needs of residents with Alzheimer's disease or other dementias;
• Frequency and type of programs and activities for residents of the assisted living facility with dementia care;
• Involvement of families in resident care and availability of family support programs;
• Fee schedules for additional services to the residents of the secured dementia care unit; and
• A statement that residents will be given a written notice 30 calendar days prior to changes in the fee schedule.

Notices submitted to OOLTC should include the required Cover Sheet for AL Notice to OOLTC. Notices must be faxed to 651-431-7385 or emailed to ALnotices.OOLTC@state.mn.us.