Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia
Department 290 - RULES OF DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
Chapter 290-2 - FAMILY AND CHILDREN SERVICES
Subject 290-2-29 - RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR MATERNITY HOMES
Rule 290-2-29-.25 - Inspections and Access to Department Staff

(1) Inspections and Investigations. The Department is authorized and empowered to conduct onsite inspections or investigations of a maternity home to verify compliance with these rules. Inspections are generally unannounced, and may occur at any time the department deems necessary to determine compliance with these rules.

(2) Consent to Entry. An application for a license or commission to operate a maternity home or the issuance of a license to operate a maternity home by the Department constitutes consent by the applicant, the proposed holder of the license and the owner of the premises for properly identified Department representatives to enter upon and inspect any and all home premises. For the purposes of these rules, access to home premises shall include all parts of the home, staff, residents in care, and documents pertinent to initial and continued licensure. The Department, in exercising its licensing authority, shall have the right to access residents' medical records.

(3) Failure to Allow Access. Failure to permit entry and inspection of the Department's representative to a home, its staff, or residents receiving care at the home or the books, records, papers, or other information related to initial or continued licensing shall constitute good cause for the denial or revocation of a license, or other sanctions as provided by law.

(4) False or Misleading Statements. No licensee or proposed holder of a license shall make or condone any employee making false or misleading statements to the Department in connection with any authorized inspection or investigation being conducted by the Department.