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How LTCs report Serious Incidents to the Department of Public Health

1. Immediately

If the Serious Incident involved any of the following, call DPH at 1-800-462-5540 and then complete step 2:


  • Unanticipated death
  • Evacuation
  • Fire
  • Suicide
  • A serious criminal act
  • Reportable illness/condition
  • Pending/actual strike action

2. Within 7 Days

Submit an electronic report using the Virtual Gateway - Healthcare Facility Reporting System (HCFRS).

NOTE: If you are reporting for a nursing home and the incident you reported to DPH involved a physician’s failure to adequately treat the resident, you may need to file a copy of that report with the Board of Registration in Medicine (BORIM). Click here to learn more.

Tips

  • If this incident also involves reportable abuse or neglect, only one report through HCFRS is necessary.
  • Not familiar with DPH’s online reporting system? You can get enrollment help, training materials, and more from DPH.

Resources:


Contact:

Department of Public Health, Bureau of Health Care Safety and Quality

Business hours:
617-753-8150

Non-business hours:
617-363-0755 or 617-469-1111

Fax: 617-753-8165

www.mass.gov/dph/bhcsq


We hope these instructions helped you meet this reporting requirement. Be aware that this action may not fulfill all applicable reporting requirements associated with the event.

This document is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute regulatory guidance or legal advice. Links and information in this document may be outdated. The Betsy Lehman Center does not represent or warrant that this information is accurate, complete, or current. For further terms and conditions, see the Terms of Use.


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