Laguna Honda Hospital and Rehabilitation Center is making significant strides towards full recertification, as highlighted in a recent government meeting. Sandra Simon, representing the hospital, announced that the facility has successfully been recertified into the Medicaid provider program, a crucial step since over 95% of its residents rely on Medicaid for support.

Simon emphasized that this achievement is a result of rigorous surveys demonstrating the hospital's commitment to high standards of resident care and safety. However, the journey is not complete. Laguna Honda is now focused on obtaining recertification from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). An application for this recertification was submitted on September 15, following CMS's directive for a new application process.

The hospital is currently awaiting a full survey from CMS, which could occur without prior notice. Simon reassured that the hospital is dedicated to maintaining excellence in care and safety, stating, "We remain confident that Laguna Honda is the best place for our residents to receive care."

In a positive turn of events, involuntary discharges from the hospital will not proceed as of September 19, allowing residents to remain in care. The hospital will prioritize former residents for readmission once it is deemed safe to do so.

Additionally, the Board of Supervisors recently approved an emergency declaration to expedite necessary repairs at Laguna Honda, further supporting its path to compliance with regulatory requirements. Simon concluded by reiterating the hospital's commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its residents, stating, "Our journey is not over, but we are a new and different Laguna Honda Hospital."