You Asked: LeadingAge Ohio has received several questions from members regarding how to report elopements under the updated Ohio Administrative Code and what to expect once a report is submitted. Below are clarifications shared by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH).
ODH Answered:
Q: What email should facilities use to send elopement information?
A: If there is no concern for neglect, facilities may send the information via email to BLTCQ@odh.ohio.gov, if there is a concern for neglect, the incident should be reported through the Self-Reported Incident (SRI) process.
Q: What information should be included in the report?
A: Facilities should include details similar to what would be reported in an SRI, such as the circumstances of the event, immediate actions taken, outcomes for the resident, and any corrective measures implemented.
Q: Can updated information be sent as the investigation continues?
A: Yes. Additional information may be submitted the same way as the initial report, with a note indicating that the investigation is still in progress, similar to the five-day follow-up process used for abuse investigations.
Q: How does ODH handle elopement notifications? Are they treated like complaint surveys?
A: Elopement notifications are reviewed and placed in the facility’s file. A manager may reach out to request additional information, similar to how SRIs are processed.
Q: How soon should a facility expect ODH to visit after reporting?
A: Reporting an elopement does not automatically trigger a survey. ODH reviews each case and determines if further follow-up is needed based on the details provided.
Q: Are elopements categorized the same if a resident briefly exits due to a wander guard failure but is immediately returned, compared to when a resident leaves undetected?
A: No. ODH looks at the entire picture when reviewing elopements that are reported to ODH.