TABLE 5.2 Level of Deficiencies, Based on Scope and Severity of Substandard Care, and the Remedy Categories Available to States for Each Level of Deficiency
	Severity of Deficiency Scope of Deficiency Isolated Pattern Widespread Immediate jeopardy to resident health or safety Level J Required remedy category: 3 Level K Required remedy category: 3 Level L Required remedy category: 3   Optional remedy category: 1 or 2 Optional remedy category: 1 or 2 Optional remedy category: 1 or 2 Actual harm that is not immediate jeopardy Level G Required remedy category: 2 Level H Required remedy category: 2 Level I Required remedy category: 2   Optional remedy category: 1 Optional remedy category: 1 Optional remedy category: 1 or temporary management No actual harm, with potential for more than minimal harm, but not immediate jeopardy Level D Required remedy category: 1 Optional remedy category: 2 Level E Required remedy category: 1 Optional remedy category: 2 Level F Required remedy category: 2 Optional remedy categories: 1 No actual harm with potential for minimal harm Level Aa Required remedy category: none Level B Required remedy category: none Level C Required remedy category: none
aAll facilities receiving deficiencies are required to submit a plan of correction except for those with level A deficiencies only. Remedy Categories: Category 1: directed plan of correction, state monitor, and/or directed in-service training. Category 2: denial of payment for new admissions, denial of payment for all individuals imposed by HCFA, and/or civil money penalties of $50–$3,000 per day or $1,000–$10,000 per instance. Category 3: temporary management, termination of certification, and/or optional: civil money penalties of $3,050–$10,000 per day or $1,000–$10,000 per instance. SOURCE: HCFA, 1999c.