A Hearty Care Home IV

Allegation investigated: Staff did not ensure residents were served food of good quality.

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Michael Hood arrived at the care home and met with Administrator, Maria Clardy, to deliver findings regarding the complaint allegation listed above. Over the course of the investigation, LPA toured the premises on multiple dates. The results of the investigation are as follows: During visits conducted on December 8, 2025, and December 31, 2025, LPA observed multiple food items on the premises that had expired past their expiration date. During both visits, staff cleared the premises of the expired food items discovered by LPA during the inspection. Based on observations, the preponderance of evidence standards have been met. Therefore, the above allegation is found to be SUBSTANTIATED. Per California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 8, a deficiency is being cited on the attached 9099-D page. Exit interview was conducted. A copy of this report and appeal rights were provided. Signature on these forms acknowledges receipt of these documents. Substantiated LPA visited the care home R1 moved to on December 9, 2025 and obtained records on site, including R1’s Admission Agreement to the new home, Preplacement Appraisal, Needs and Services Plan, and Medical Assessment upon Admission. LPA observed R1’s Admission Date Listed for the new care home was November 19, 2025. LPA observed R1’s Medical Assessment upon admission to the new care home was dated November 7, 2024. R1’s Medical Assessment indicated that R1 was non-ambulatory and had diagnoses that included acute stroke due to occlusion of right middle cerebral artery, Dermatitis, chronic low back pain with lumbar radiculopathy, left wrist joint pain, headache, history of ischemic stroke with unspecified residual deficits, Hemiplegia, right carotid artery occlusion, Hypothyroidism, unspecified anxiety disorder, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without retinopathy, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with peripheral neuropathy, ADHD unspecified, restless legs syndrome, daytime somnolence, sleep apnea, Hypertension, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Hyperlipidemia, benign prostatic hyperplasia, bilat sensorineural hearing loss, cervical spondylosis, allergic rhinitis, history of gastric bypass surgery, and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). LPA observed R1’s Preplacement Appraisal and Needs and Services Plan were dated November 22, 2025. LPA did not observe any new conditions on R1’s Preplacement Appraisal and Needs and Services Plan that were not listed on R1’s Medical Assessment dated November 7, 2024. LPA observed a Discharge Instructions Document for R1’s visit to the hospital on November 22, 2025. Document indicates that R1 was diagnosed with Cellulitis, chronic radicular low back pain, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Hypertension, Hyperlipidemia, benign prostatic hyperplasia, Hypothyroid, Hemiplegia, and Headache. LPA observed Cellulitis as a change in condition for R1. Based on LPA's observations and records obtained during the investigation, there was approximately three (3) days between R1 moving out of the care home into another care home and R1 being sent to the hospital, where they were diagnosed with Cellulitis as a new diagnosis. It cannot be determined whether or not the care home R1 moved from would have sent R1 to the hospital sooner had they not moved to a new care home. Therefore, the allegation that the care home did not provide medical attention in a timely manner is unsubstantiated. Allegation: Staff did not respond to resident's call bell in a timely manner. ** Report continued on 9099-C ** LPA conducted interviews with residents R2 and R3, as well as staff members S1, S2, and S3. R2 and R3 indicated that they have used a call button to obtain assistance from care staff. Interviews conducted with residents did not indicate any concerns regarding wait times before receiving assistance from staff after using their call button. Interviews with staff indicated wait times that ranged from immediate to 15 minutes in which a resident would have to wait for assistance from care staff after using their call button. LPA observed progress notes for R1 and observed staff acknowledge R1 using their call button and staff providing assistance in response to R1 using their call button. Allegation: Staff did not ensure the home was clean and in good repair. LPA conducted interviews with residents R2 and R3, as well as staff members S1, S2, and S3. Interviews conducted with residents and staff did not indicate any concerns regarding the care home being unclean or in disrepair. The Department conducted visits at the care home on December 8, 2025, December 31, 2025, July 14, 2026, August 11, 2026, and August 12, 2026. LPAs who conducted visits did not observe care home to be unclean or in disrepair. Based on interviews conducted, observations, and records reviewed, the preponderance of evidence standards have not been met. Therefore, the above allegations are found to be UNSUBSTANTIATED. A finding that a complaint allegation is unsubstantiated means that, although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of the evidence to prove that the alleged violation occurred. Exit interview was conducted. A copy of this report and appeal rights were provided. Signature on these forms acknowledges receipt of these documents. LPA received a pest control invoice dated December 5, 2025, which was prior to LPA opening the complaint investigation. Pest control invoice dated December 5, 2025 indicates that there was no pest activity noted. Based on interviews conducted, observations, and records reviewed, the above allegation is found to be UNFOUNDED. A finding that the allegation is unfounded means that the allegation is false, could not have happened, and/or is without a reasonable basis. Exit interview was conducted. A copy of this report was provided. Signature on these forms acknowledges receipt of these documents.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Aug 12, 2026 · control 59-AS-20251201155214

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR 87555(b)(8) · Plan of correction due date: Sep 11, 2026

87555 General Food Service Requirements (b) The following food service requirements shall apply: (8) All food shall be of good quality. (…) This requirement is not met as evidenced by: Based on LPA’s observations, the care home did not ensure that food items on the premises were of good quality as multiple food items were past their expiration date, which poses a potential health, safety, and personal rights risk to the residents in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Aug 12, 2026

Plan of correction: Facility will ensure to purge expired food items from the care home regularly. Facility will conduct staff training regarding food safety with all staff and provide proof of training to LPA by POC due date of September 11, 2026.

Type of visit: Case Management - Deficiencies

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Michael Hood arrived at the care home and met with Administrator, Maria Clardy, to conduct a case management visit regarding information obtained during a separate inspection conducted on August 12, 2026. During visit, LPA requested documentation pertaining to resident (R1). R1 moved out of the care home on November 19, 2025. LPA requested records pertaining to R1’s residency at the care home as it pertained to their care needs while they resided at the care home. Facility could not provide requested documentation to LPA by the conclusion of this inspection. Per Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 8, Section 87506 "(e) Original records or photographic reproductions shall be retained for a minimum of three (3) years following termination of service to the resident.” During visit, LPA reviewed documentation pertaining to resident (R2). LPA observed R2's Admission Agreement, which included an "Addendum re Hospice Care." The addendum states the following: "The Hospice rate for this facility (...) is a set fee that is non-refundable." Interview with Administrator indicated that, if a resident who is receiving hospice care passes away while residing at the care home, the family is not issued a refund for fees paid in advance. ** Report continued on 809-C ** Per Health and Safety Code §1569.652(c), “A refund of any fees paid in advance covering the time after the resident’s personal property has been removed from the facility shall be issued to the individual, individuals, or entity contractually responsible for the fees or, if the deceased resident paid the fees, to the resident’s estate, within 15 days after the personal property is removed.” Per Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 8, Section 87507(h)(4), “The admission agreement shall not contain the following: Any provision that violates the rights of any residents including but not limited to those specified in Section 87468 and in Health and Safety Code section 1569 et seq.” As a result of today's inspection, deficiencies are being cited pursuant to California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 8. Deficiencies are listed on 809-D. Exit interview was conducted. A copy of this report and appeal rights were provided. Signature on these forms acknowledges receipt of these documents.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Aug 12, 2026

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR 87506(e) · Plan of correction due date: Sep 11, 2026

87506 Resident Records (e) Original records or photographic reproductions shall be retained for a minimum of three (3) years following termination of service to the resident. This requirement is not met as evidenced by: Based on observations and records reviewed, the facility did not ensure to maintain resident (R1’s) records for a minimum of three (3) years as they could not provide R1’s records to LPA by the conclusion of their inspection, which poses a potential health, safety, and personal rights risk to the residents in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Aug 12, 2026

Plan of correction: Facility will complete a statement of understanding regarding regulation 87506 and submit statement to LPA by POC due date of September 11, 2026.

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR87507(h)(4) · Plan of correction due date: Sep 11, 2026

87507 Admission Agreements (h) The admission agreement shall not contain the following: (4) Any provision that violates the rights of any residents including but not limited to those specified in Section 87468 and in Health and Safety Code section 1569 et seq. This requirement is not met as evidenced by: Based on interviews conducted and records reviewed, the facility did not ensure that admission agreements for the residents did not violate rights indicated in Health and Safety Code section §1569.652(c), which poses a potential health, safety, and personal rights risk to the residents in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Aug 12, 2026

Plan of correction: Facility will update Admissions Agreement Addendums for all residents and ensure that there is nothing included that violates any rights specified in Section 87468 and in Health and Safety Code section 1569 et seq. Facility will submit updated Admissions Agreement Addendums to LPA by POC due date of September 11, 2026.

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Michael Hood arrived at the facility unannounced on November 19, 2025 to conduct a Required-1 Year Inspection utilizing the inspection tool. LPA conducted an inspection of the care home to ensure compliance with Title 22 regulations. There are six (6) bedrooms and seven (7) bathrooms for resident use. LPA observed bedrooms to be properly furnished, with appropriate bedding and lighting. The bathrooms were in sanitary condition and properly maintained. Hot water temperature was observed to be 117 degrees F. LPA checked the kitchen area for the ability to prepare and store food. Care home has required two (2) day perishable and seven (7) day non-perishable food supply on cite. LPA observed knives, cleaning products, and other toxins to be locked away and inaccessible to residents. LPA observed the backyard and perimeter of the care home to be free of clutter and debris. LPA observed smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to be operational in the care home. First aid kit is maintained and ready for emergency use. LPA reviewed two (2) residents' medications. LPA reviewed five (5) resident files and two (2) staff files. Facility has a current copy of certificate of liability insurance and LPA requested a copy. As a result of this visit, no deficiencies were cited per California Code of Regulations, Title 22. Exit was interview conducted and copy of report given at the conclusion of this visit.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Nov 19, 2025

Type of visit: Case Management - Other

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Sabrina Calzada conducted an unannounced case management visit on October 10, 2025. This visit is to confirm ORDER TO LICENSEE/FACILITY FOR IMMEDIATE EXCLUSION FROM FACILITY. LPA initially met with staff, Irene Hinampas and Eilaisa Niutabua. While waiting for the Administrator to arrive, LPA and staff, Irene, toured the interior of the facility and observed (6) residents to be resting in their private rooms. Also present was staff, Nancy Hubbs and another staff, Cef Olandria, along with a hospice nurse who arrived when LPA arrived was attending to one of the (2) residents currently under hospice care. The Administrator, Maria Clardy, arrived at 2:00 pm. . LPA stated the purpose of visit and provided the Administrator with a copy of the above order. Facility understands this is an Immediate Exclusion effective October 10, 2025 and (S1) is excluded and cannot be allowed to work, live in, and/or have contact with clients in any residential facility licensed by the California Department of Social Services. Therefore, the Department orders the facility to remove (S1) from any contact with clients and not allow this employee to be physically present in the facility. Administrator stated (S1) has not worked at the facility since on/around October, 2023. LPA confirmed that there was a change in Administrator on/around October 2024. LPA to advise the current assigned LPA of this change who can follow up. Exit interview conducted, a copy of this report provided on this date. A signature on these forms acknowledges receipt of these forms.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Oct 10, 2025

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Michael Hood arrived at the facility unannounced on 11/26/24 to conduct a Required-1 Year Inspection utilizing the inspection tool. LPA conducted an inspection of the care home to ensure compliance with Title 22 regulations. There are six (6) bedrooms and seven (7) bathrooms for resident use. LPA observed bedrooms to be properly furnished, with appropriate bedding and lighting. The bathrooms were in sanitary condition and properly maintained. Hot water temperature was observed to be 120 degrees F. LPA checked the kitchen area for the ability to prepare and store food. Care home has required two (2) day perishable and seven (7) day non-perishable food supply on cite. LPA observed knives, cleaning products, and other toxins to be locked away and inaccessible to residents. LPA observed the backyard and perimeter of the care home to be free of clutter and debris. LPA observed smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to be operational in the care home. First aid kit is maintained and ready for emergency use. LPA reviewed four (4) resident files and two (2) staff files. Facility has a current copy of certificate of liability insurance and LPA requested a copy. As a result of today's inspection, a deficiency is being cited pursuant to California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 8. Deficiency is listed on the attached 809-D page. Exit interview was conducted with Administrator. A copy of this report and appeal rights were provided. Signatures on these forms acknowledges receipt of these documents.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Nov 26, 2024

Type of visit: Case Management - Health Checks

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Michael Hood arrived at the facility to conduct a health and safety check and follow-up regarding technical assistance that was provided to the facility during an inspection conducted on 11/28/2023. During today's inspection, LPA toured the facility and conducted a file review for four (4) staff and four (4) resident files. As a result of today's inspection, deficiencies are being cited pursuant to California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 8 regarding hazardous items being accessible to residents and staff missing health screenings on file. Exit interview was conducted with Administrator. A copy of this report and appeal rights were provided. Signature on these forms acknowledges receipt of these documents.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Mar 6, 2024

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type A · Section cited: CCR 87309(a) · Plan of correction due date: Mar 7, 2024

87309 Storage Space (a) Disinfectants, cleaning solutions, poisons, firearms and other items which could pose a danger if readily available to clients shall be stored where inaccessible to clients. This requirement is not met as evidenced by: Based on LPA's observation, facility did not ensure that knives and cleaning products were inaccessible to residents in care, which poses an immediate health, safety, and personal rights risk to the residents in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Mar 6, 2024

Plan of correction: Facility will ensure that all hazardous items are locked and inaccessible to the residents in care at all times. Administrator will complete a statement of understanding regarding regulation 87309 and submit to LPA by POC due date of 3/7/2024.

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR87412(a)(11) · Plan of correction due date: Apr 4, 2024

87412 Personnel Records (a) The licensee shall ensure that personnel records are maintained on (...) each employee. Each personnel record shall contain (...) (11) A health screening as specified in Section 87411 (...). This requirement is not met as evidenced by: Based on records reviewed, the facility did not ensure that 2 of 4 staff records included a health screening, which poses a potential health, safety, and personal rights risk to the residents in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Mar 6, 2024

Plan of correction: Facility will obtain health screenings for all staff. Facility will submit a copy of each employee's health screening to LPA by POC due date of 4/4/2024.

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Michael Hood arrived at the facility unannounced on 11/28/23 to conduct a Required-1 Year Inspection utilizing the inspection tool. LPA conducted an inspection of the care home to ensure compliance with Title 22 regulations. There are six bedrooms and seven bathrooms for resident use. LPA observed bedrooms to be properly furnished, with appropriate bedding and lighting. The bathrooms were in sanitary condition and properly maintained. Hot water temperature was observed to be 117.3 degrees F. LPA checked the kitchen area for the ability to prepare and store food. Care home has required two (2) day perishable and seven (7) day non-perishable food supply on cite. LPA observed knives to be locked away and inaccessible to residents. LPA observed the backyard and perimeter of the care home to be free of clutter and debris. LPA observed smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to be operational in the care home. First aid kit is maintained and ready for emergency use. LPA checked medication storage and found medication to be locked away and inaccessible to the residents. LPA reviewed three (3) resident files and two (2) staff files. Facility has a current copy of certificate of liability insurance and LPA requested a copy. LPA also requested a copy of an active Administrator certificate, staff roster, and infection control plan. As a result of this visit, no deficiencies were cited per California Code of Regulations, Title 22. Exit was interview conducted and copy of report given at the conclusion of this visit.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Nov 28, 2023