This section applies only to hospice agencies and hospice care centers providing or contracting for medical supplies or equipment services.

(1) The applicant or licensee must develop and implement policies and procedures to:

(a) Maintain medical supplies and equipment;

(b) Clean, inspect, repair and calibrate equipment per the manufacturers' recommendations, and document the date and name of individual conducting the activity;

(c) Ensure safe handling and storage of medical supplies and equipment;

(d) Inform the patient, designated family member, or legal representative of the cost and method of payment for equipment, equipment repairs and equipment replacement;

(e) Document the patient, designated family member, or legal representative's approval;

(f) Instruct each patient or family to use and maintain supplies and equipment in a language or format the patient or family understands, using one or more of the following:

(i) Written instruction;

(ii) Verbal instruction; or

(iii) Demonstration.

(g) Document the patient, designated family member, or legal representative understanding of the instructions provided;

(h) Replace supplies and equipment essential for the health or safety of the patient; and

(i) Identify and replace equipment recalled by the manufacturer.

(2) If the applicant or licensee contracts for medical supplies or equipment services, develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure that contractors have policies and procedures consistent with subsection (1) of this section.