We have a set dollar amount that we reimburse staff going out to eat with a resident for lunch or dinner.  We have stipulations such as the main purpose for the outing must be to have a meal, and everyone must be seated around a table to simulate a family gathering, thus to promote  a sense of community.  An example of what would not qualify is food at a bowling alley (because the main purpose is bowling, not eating), nor would food at a drive-thru, as there would be no sit-down, dining family style.

Prior to implementing this, we were finding that staff would not eat with the resident as they would not want to spend their own money.  We did not feel this fostered a good mealtime feeling, and created an  awkward environment .  It took a while to get staff used to what qualifies and what does not, but it seems to be working pretty smoothly now.

Happy New Year everyone! Please see a member question below. Any assistance is greatly appreciated.

When staff takes a client out to get food we are finding it difficult to determine when it is appropriate for the staff to use agency petty cash to help pay for their meal when they take individuals out. Do any other providers have a policy in place guiding the use of agency petty cash? Does this scenario make sense? I am finding it hard to put this in writing.

Anita Allen

Vice President

Ohio Provider Resource Association

1152 Goodale Blvd

Columbus  OH    43212

614-224-6772 x110

614-655-0170 direct

614-224-3340 fax

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