Regulations for Residential Care Homes in Vermont

Residential care homes offer a home-like environment to residents who need care and assistance similar to that provided by nursing homes. These homes offers services that help residents develop independence through carrying out daily tasks. Vermont advances the rights and welfare of these residents with regulations that guarantee they will receive quality care and service. The state charges the Department of Aging and Disabilities with ensuring residential-care homes comply with regulations.

License Requirements

• Vermont's Division of Licensing and Protection of the Department of Aging and Disabilities requires residential-care home providers obtain either a Level III or Level IV license to operate. Prospective residential care home providers must submit facility plans and details, written documents for local zoning and references needed by the Division of Licensing and Protection for thorough review of the application. Residential care providers must provide certain basic services and amenities, including room and board, personal-care assistance, medical management and general supervision. Providers with Level III licenses must offer the additional service of nursing overview.

Inspection

• The Division of Licensing and Protection inspects residential care homes before granting a license. The division also has the authority to conduct a survey or inspection of a home at any time they deem necessary. Inspections and surveys aim to determine if residential care facilities are in compliance with regulations. Inspections may also include the facility manager's living quarters if there is belief that it will help determine if the home is in violation. The manager or supervisor of the facility may accompany the designated inspector during the inspection.

Care level

• Resident care homes in Vermont must offer the level of care and services that address the residents in regard to their personal, psychological and medical needs. The facility's staff should respect the residents and acknowledge their personal abilities and accomplishments. Residential care homes should create an environment that encourages residents' progress in doing daily activities. The residential care home is to designate a head physician who oversees medication, dietary regiment and treatment procedures for residents. The residential care home must also obtain the division's permission if it wishes to establish a special-care unit.

Admission Policies

• Licensed residential care facilities in Vermont must provide a written agreement to residents upon their admission. The agreement contains specific details, such as rates and services to be performed. The written agreement must provide details of the home's policies, including discharge and transfer procedures. A resident my transferred or discharged only under certain conditions, such as a change in the resident's financial standing or if the resident becomes a threat to himself and/or others in the facility. The client has the right to appeal a discharge or transfer.