The California Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing Division conducted several unannounced evaluations at Merrill Gardens at Rockridge. The January‑February visits on 02/02/2022 and 03/03/2022 found the facility’s infection‑control procedures, food supply, staffing, and emergency plans to be adequate, with no deficiencies cited. Administrators Dillon Cagulada and Candice Moses reported full compliance with screening protocols and routine health checks, and the evaluator’s exit interview was completed without incident.

In July 2022, a complaint investigation uncovered a significant lapse in staff screening: one employee had neither a required criminal‑record clearance nor a formal association with the facility. This breach was cited under Title 22 regulations, and a civil penalty of $500 was imposed. The evaluator noted the deficiency and provided a plan of correction due on 07/12/2022, emphasizing the immediate risk to residents when clearance procedures are not met.

The August 10 visit addressed a medication‑administration incident in which a resident received the wrong prescription (Levothyroxine 100 mg) intended for another patient. While no injury resulted, the incident triggered a deficiency citation under the incidental medical and dental care regulations. A corrective plan was assigned, with the evaluator highlighting the need for secure medication protocols and staff training. The evaluator also noted that no civil penalty was assessed at that time because no harm had occurred.

A follow‑up visit on 08/29, prompted by two self‑reported incidents, reviewed an elopement and a fall caused by a poorly secured washer‑dryer. The evaluator observed that the resident had a 24/7 private caregiver and that the facility’s laundry equipment was not anchored, posing a fall risk. No deficiency was cited, but the administrator was encouraged to consider securing the appliances and re‑evaluating the resident’s placement to better meet memory‑care needs.

Across these visits, Merrill Gardens at Rockridge demonstrates generally strong infection control and staffing practices, yet it has faced notable compliance challenges related to staff clearance and medication safety. The evaluator’s reports underscore the importance of robust screening processes and secure medication administration protocols to safeguard resident health and maintain licensing integrity.