How often does the department conduct unannounced inspections?

The frequency of unannounced inspections conducted by the department is set at least once every 15 months. This schedule allows for a balanced approach to monitoring residential care and assisted living facilities, ensuring that they maintain compliance with regulations and standards. It provides enough time between inspections for facilities to implement necessary improvements or address any prior issues, while still ensuring that facilities are held accountable for maintaining quality care and safety for residents. Regular inspections are crucial for protecting the welfare of individuals in care settings and ensuring that standards are consistently met, thus supporting the overall safety and quality of care provided. Other options suggest more frequent inspections, which may not align with the established regulations or policies governing the oversight of these facilities.