The California Department of Health issued a new All Facilities Letter (AFL) requiring specific healthcare facilities, including nursing homes, to develop and comply with an "absentee notification plan" as part of their written plans and procedures. This requirement, effective January 1, 2014, aims to address issues arising when a patient, resident, or participant is missing from the facility. The plan must include informing the patient's authorized representative when the patient is missing and notifying local law enforcement under certain circumstances. This requirement does not apply to state hospitals when informing the patient's authorized representative may create a risk to the safety and security of the hospital. Healthcare facilities are responsible for following all applicable laws, and any failure to do so may result in consequences for non-compliance. Facilities should refer to the Health and Safety Code and Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations to ensure compliance.

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