If a licensee dies, how long can a relative operate a facility under an Emergency Approval to Operate (EAO)?

The correct answer is that a relative can operate a facility under an Emergency Approval to Operate (EAO) for 60 days following the death of a licensee. This provision is important as it allows a relative to maintain continuity of operations and ensures that the facility can continue to serve its community without immediate disruption, providing some time for transition and planning for the future management of the facility.

In this context, the 60-day period is a specific regulatory standard established to balance the need for quick action in emergencies while also allowing enough time to address the necessary legal and operational changes that follow the death of a licensee. This timeframe provides relatives an opportunity to make arrangements for permanent management or to ensure that a new qualified licensee can take over the facility operations, thus serving both the needs of the facility and its clients effectively.

The timeframe of 60 days is significant in ensuring that the facility does not remain unmanaged for too long, which could jeopardize the health and wellbeing of the individuals relying on its services.