| Regulatory Update: New Antipsychotic Survey Tool |
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by Flora Brahmbhatt, Pharm. D., CGP Beginning August 1, 2012, the California Department of Public Health will use a new tool to survey antipsychotic use in nursing homes. This 10-section tool will cover all areas with regards to antipsychotics including diagnosis, appropriateness of behavior monitors, documentation, and informed consent. This appears to be at least in part a result of recent nationwide and statewide reports indicating much inappropriate use of these medications, and statistics indicating that nationally, well over 20% of nursing home residents receive antipsychotic medication. With input from CALTCM, CAHF requested some modifications to this tool from the CDPH, but very little was changed. In many ways, this tool levels the playing field for facilities in understanding the exact expectation to be in compliance. In mid-July, two CDPH pharmacist surveyors led a webinar reviewing this new tool and the supplemental guide specifying how to use the tool. As of August 1, surveyors will use this tool on annual surveys as well as complaint visit. You can find the antipsychotic tool and supplemental guide in the resource section of our website. Additionally, CAHF will be hosting a webcast on this topic on August 3, 2012: |