The California Department of Health has issued a new All Facilities Letter (AFL) reminding healthcare facilities, including nursing homes, of their mandated reporting requirements for potential abuse, neglect, exploitation, or mistreatment of elders or dependent adults. Facilities must report suspected or known abuse to their local law enforcement agency, long-term care ombudsman, and district office. The letter outlines specific reporting timeframes and entities, with incidents involving abuse or serious bodily injury requiring immediate reporting within two hours, and other suspicions reported within 24 hours. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in a class "B" violation, fines, or imprisonment. The department recommends that facilities retain reporting documents in their recordkeeping system for potential inspections. The AFL aims to protect the health and welfare of California's vulnerable populations by ensuring proper reporting and investigation of abuse incidents.

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