Visitors; right of access

(a) Visitors must be granted access to residents, who have the right to refuse or terminate any visit. The facility must permit the resident’s representatives and representatives of any federally mandated ombudsman or advocacy program to have access to the resident. Access under this Code section shall be allowed during normal visitation hours. (b) Each person entering a facility shall promptly disclose his presence and identity to the person in charge and shall enter the immediate living quarters of a resident only after identifying himself and receiving permission to enter. Such person shall leave immediately upon the resident’s request. The rights of other residents in the room and in the facility shall be respected. (c) The administrator or person in charge of a facility may refuse access as described in this Code section or require a person to leave a facility only if he has reason to believe that the presence of the person seeking access would result in severe harm to any resident’s health, safety, or property; if the access is sought for financial solicitation or for commercial purposes; or if such access is refused by the resident. (d) This Code section shall not limit the power of any public agency, ombudsman under Article 3 of this chapter, or other person permitted or required by law to enter and inspect a facility. History. — Code 1933, § 88-1920B, enacted by Ga. L. 1981, p. 149, § 1. 31-8-121. Formation of residents’ council; space for meetings; assistance in attending meetings; compelling of attendance or participation. The facility must permit the formation of a residents’ council by interested residents, provide space for meetings, and provide assistance in attending meetings to those residents who require it. The facility may not compel attendance at or participation in residents’ council meetings. History. — Code 1933, § 88-1920B, enacted by Ga. L. 1981, p. 149, § 1. 492 31-8-124 31-8-122. Compliance with this article by facilities; establishment by facilities of written policies and procedures; familiarization of facility staff with this article. (a) Each facility shall establish written policies and procedures in accordance with this article and shall provide for the implementation and continuing compliance with this article. In addition, each facility must comply with all other applicable state laws and regulations. (b) Each facility shall conduct training for all staff on a quarterly basis to provide that its staff is familiar with this article and understands the obligation to provide care for residents consistent with this article at all times. History. — Code 1933, § 88-1904B, enacted by Ga. L. 1981, p. 149, § 1.