LIFE BYVardellNursing Home
Report

TheVardellReport

Buena Vista Care Center

Skilled nursing facility and nursing facility

160 South Patterson Avenue
Santa Barbara, CA 93111

Report Date
Nov 1, 2026
Data Through
Oct 1, 2026
Report ID
VR-CA-555394-2611
← Buena Vista Care Center, free profile

Life by Vardell Presents

The Vardell Report.Buena Vista Care Center

The deeper story, beautifully organized. Available records, historical context, and questions worth asking.

Provider Category
Nursing home
Location
Santa Barbara, CA
Record Period
2022–2026
Source Documents
17
Read the report

This report is free. Vardell does not certify, grade or endorse; it shows what the record documents.

01

The Essentials

Summary

Across 15 inspections from March 2022 to April 2026, state surveyors documented 32 findings at Buena Vista Care Center; 32 have a recorded correction; CMS lists 1 enforcement action in the window.

Inspections
15
2022–2026, standard and complaint
Findings
32
Deficiencies cited by state inspectors
Corrected
32
Of 32 findings, with a recorded correction date
Penalties
1
1 fine; payment not published

Findings by Year

  • Findings
  • Of which, actual harm (level G or above)
2022: 9 findings across 1 inspection920221 inspection2023: 1 finding across 1 inspection120231 inspection2024: 4 findings across 4 inspections420244 inspections2025: 13 findings across 7 inspections; of which, actual harm (level G or above): 21320257 inspections2026: 5 findings across 2 inspections52026*2 inspections2022: 9 findings across 1 inspection920221 insp.2023: 1 finding across 1 inspection120231 insp.2024: 4 findings across 4 inspections420244 insp.2025: 13 findings across 7 inspections; of which, actual harm (level G or above): 21320257 insp.2026: 5 findings across 2 inspections52026*2 insp.

* Partial year, through October 1, 2026.

Findings by year
YearInspectionsFindingsOf which, actual harm (level G or above)
2022190
2023110
2024440
20257132
2026250

What the Record Shows

  • 32 of 32 findings have a recorded correction date.
  • CMS lists 1 enforcement action in the window: 1 fine of $32,263, its payment not published.
  • 12 visits in this window included a complaint investigation. CMS publishes what a complaint investigation cited, not what the complaint alleged.
  • The latest standard inspection, April 10, 2026, recorded 4 findings (most serious: Level D).
02

Chronology

Inspection History

Every inspection in the record window, newest first. A finding is a deficiency an inspector cited. CMS publishes what a complaint investigation cited, not what the complaint alleged.

  1. 2026

    Standard health inspection

    4 findings

    • F658Ensure services provided by the nursing facility meet professional standards of quality.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 4, 2026
    • F761Ensure drugs and biologicals used in the facility are labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles; and all drugs and biologicals must be stored in locked compartments, separately locked, compartments for controlled drugs.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 4, 2026
    • F805Ensure each resident receives and the facility provides food prepared in a form designed to meet individual needs.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 4, 2026
    • F812Procure food from sources approved or considered satisfactory and store, prepare, distribute and serve food in accordance with professional standards.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 4, 2026

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

  2. 2026

    Complaint investigation

    1 finding

    • F656Develop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Jan 23, 2026

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

  3. 2025

    Complaint investigation

    1 finding

    • F656Develop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured.Level GActual harmCorrected Dec 15, 2025

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

  4. 2025

    Complaint investigation

    2 findings

    • F689Ensure that a nursing home area is free from accident hazards and provides adequate supervision to prevent accidents.Level JImmediate jeopardyCorrected Dec 17, 2025
    • F908Keep all essential equipment working safely.Level ENo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Dec 17, 2025

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

  5. 2025

    Complaint investigation

    1 finding

    • F697Provide safe, appropriate pain management for a resident who requires such services.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Sep 1, 2025

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

  6. 2025

    Complaint investigation

    1 finding

    • F842Safeguard resident-identifiable information and/or maintain medical records on each resident that are in accordance with accepted professional standards.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 16, 2025

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

  7. 2025

    Complaint investigation

    1 finding

    • F584Honor the resident's right to a safe, clean, comfortable and homelike environment, including but not limited to receiving treatment and supports for daily living safely.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Apr 15, 2025

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

  8. 2025

    Complaint investigation

    2 findings

    • F656Develop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Apr 14, 2025
    • F921Make sure that the nursing home area is safe, easy to use, clean and comfortable for residents, staff and the public.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Apr 14, 2025

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

  9. 2025

    Standard health inspection

    5 findings

    • F812Procure food from sources approved or considered satisfactory and store, prepare, distribute and serve food in accordance with professional standards.Level FNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Feb 17, 2025
    • F554Allow residents to self-administer drugs if determined clinically appropriate.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Feb 17, 2025
    • F641Ensure each resident receives an accurate assessment.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Feb 17, 2025
    • F645PASARR screening for Mental disorders or Intellectual DisabilitiesLevel DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Feb 17, 2025
    • F761Ensure drugs and biologicals used in the facility are labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles; and all drugs and biologicals must be stored in locked compartments, separately locked, compartments for controlled drugs.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Feb 17, 2025

    Enforcement Action

    Civil money penalty, $32,263 imposed October 3, 2025. CMS publishes the fine, not whether it has been paid. CMS does not tie a penalty to a survey; listed with the standard health inspection of January 17, 2025, the nearest before the penalty date.

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

  10. 2024

    Complaint investigation

    1 finding

    • F580Immediately tell the resident, the resident's doctor, and a family member of situations (injury/decline/room, etc.) that affect the resident.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Sep 3, 2024

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

  11. 2024

    Complaint investigation

    1 finding

    • F550Honor the resident's right to a dignified existence, self-determination, communication, and to exercise his or her rights.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 3, 2024

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

  12. 2024

    Complaint investigation

    1 finding

    • F568Properly hold, secure, and manage each resident's personal money which is deposited with the nursing home.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Apr 15, 2024

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

  13. 2024

    Complaint investigation

    1 finding

    • F656Develop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Jan 22, 2024

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

  14. 2023

    Complaint investigation

    1 finding

    • F584Honor the resident's right to a safe, clean, comfortable and homelike environment, including but not limited to receiving treatment and supports for daily living safely.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected Jan 8, 2024

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

  15. 2022

    Standard health inspection

    9 findings

    • F842Safeguard resident-identifiable information and/or maintain medical records on each resident that are in accordance with accepted professional standards.Level ENo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 3, 2022
    • F880Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program.Level ENo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 3, 2022
    • F925Make sure there is a pest control program to prevent/deal with mice, insects, or other pests.Level ENo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 3, 2022
    • F584Honor the resident's right to a safe, clean, comfortable and homelike environment, including but not limited to receiving treatment and supports for daily living safely.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 3, 2022
    • F656Develop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 3, 2022
    • F755Provide pharmaceutical services to meet the needs of each resident and employ or obtain the services of a licensed pharmacist.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 3, 2022
    • F761Ensure drugs and biologicals used in the facility are labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles; and all drugs and biologicals must be stored in locked compartments, separately locked, compartments for controlled drugs.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 3, 2022
    • F806Ensure each resident receives and the facility provides food that accommodates resident allergies, intolerances, and preferences, as well as appealing options.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 3, 2022
    • F812Procure food from sources approved or considered satisfactory and store, prepare, distribute and serve food in accordance with professional standards.Level DNo actual harm, potential for moreCorrected May 3, 2022

    Source: Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

Severity levels follow the CMS scope and severity grid. A–C: potential for minimal harm. D–F: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm. G–I: actual harm. J–L: immediate jeopardy.

03

Context

Patterns Worth Examining

A repeated citation can merit attention, but context and corrective action must be reviewed before drawing a conclusion.

  1. 1

    Care Plans, Cited in Five Inspections

    Inspectors cited F656 in March 2022, January 2024, March 2025, October 2025 and January 2026. This citation covers whether each resident has a written care plan that meets their needs, with goals that can be measured. The most serious of these was recorded at level G (actual harm). Each citation has a recorded correction, and a repeat after correction is worth a direct question.

    222324242424252525252525252626F656 across all 15 inspections, oldest to newest
  2. 2

    A Clean, Homelike Setting, Cited in Three Inspections

    Inspectors cited F584 in March 2022, December 2023 and March 2025. This citation covers whether rooms and shared spaces are kept safe, clean, comfortable and homelike. None rose above level D (no actual harm, potential for more). Each citation has a recorded correction, and a repeat after correction is worth a direct question.

    222324242424252525252525252626F584 across all 15 inspections, oldest to newest
  3. 3

    Medication Labeling and Storage, Cited in Three Inspections

    Inspectors cited F761 in March 2022, January 2025 and April 2026. This citation covers how drugs are labeled and kept locked, including controlled drugs. None rose above level D (no actual harm, potential for more). Each citation has a recorded correction, and a repeat after correction is worth a direct question.

    222324242424252525252525252626F761 across all 15 inspections, oldest to newest
  4. 4

    Kitchen and Food Safety, Cited in Three Inspections

    Inspectors cited F812 in March 2022, January 2025 and April 2026. This citation covers how food is stored, prepared and served. None rose above level F (no actual harm, potential for more). Each citation has a recorded correction, and a repeat after correction is worth a direct question.

    222324242424252525252525252626F812 across all 15 inspections, oldest to newest
  5. 5

    Medical Records, Cited in Two Inspections

    Inspectors cited F842 in March 2022 and May 2025. This citation covers whether resident records are complete, accurate and kept confidential. None rose above level E (no actual harm, potential for more). Each citation has a recorded correction, and a repeat after correction is worth a direct question.

    222324242424252525252525252626F842 across all 15 inspections, oldest to newest
04

For Your Next Visit

Questions to Ask on Your Visit

Bring these to the tour. Each one comes from something in the record; the reason is under the question.

  1. 01

    How is a care plan written and reviewed here, and how do families take part in it?

    Care Plans: cited in five inspections, most seriously at level G.

  2. 02

    What was done about the cleanliness citation, and how are rooms and shared spaces checked now?

    A Clean, Homelike Setting: cited in three inspections, most seriously at level D.

  3. 03

    How are medications stored and secured, and who checks the medication carts?

    Medication Labeling and Storage: cited in three inspections, most seriously at level D.

  4. 04

    May we see the kitchen, and what do your own sanitation checks look like week to week?

    Kitchen and Food Safety: cited in three inspections, most seriously at level F.

  5. 05

    How can a family request a resident’s records, and how are they kept accurate?

    Medical Records: cited in two inspections, most seriously at level E.

  6. 06

    How many nurses and aides are on each shift, including nights and weekends, for the unit we are considering?

    No staffing citation appears in this window. Staffing levels are published separately by CMS and are worth asking about directly.

  7. 07

    What led to the 2025 fine, and has it been paid?

    A $32,263 civil money penalty was imposed October 3, 2025. CMS publishes the fine, not whether it has been paid.

05

The Evidence

Sources and Coverage

Inspection results and penalties are published by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services from surveys conducted by the California state survey agency.

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection Mar 3, 2022 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection Dec 26, 2023 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection Jan 12, 2024 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection Apr 3, 2024 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection Apr 23, 2024 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection Aug 8, 2024 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection Jan 17, 2025 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection Mar 7, 2025 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection Mar 20, 2025 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection May 2, 2025 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection Aug 20, 2025 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection Oct 3, 2025 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection Oct 20, 2025 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection Jan 14, 2026 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Health inspection results, as published by CMS (Health Deficiencies and Inspection Dates, Provider Data Catalog)

    California state survey agency

    Inspection Apr 10, 2026 · Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

  • Penalties, Provider Data Catalog

    Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

    Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

    View Dataset ↗
  • Provider Information, Provider Data Catalog

    Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services · 555394

    Published Oct 1, 2026 · Retrieved Nov 1, 2026

    View Dataset ↗

Coverage

Record windowMarch 3, 2022 – October 1, 2026

  • CMS publishes about three inspection cycles; inspections before March 2022 are not in this release.
  • CMS refreshes these files monthly, after statements of deficiencies are processed, so an inspection from the last two months may not appear yet.

What This Report Cannot Tell You

Complaints not investigated onsite
Allegations screened out by the state before an onsite visit are not published.
Complaint allegations
CMS publishes the deficiencies a complaint survey cited, not the allegation itself.
Facility-reported incidents
Self-reported incidents appear only if they led to an inspection.
Follow-up visits
CMS's files list standard, complaint and infection control surveys, not revisits; a correction date is the one CMS records.
Fire safety inspections
Published by CMS separately and not included in this record yet.
Staffing levels and ownership history
Published by CMS separately and not included in this record.
Whether fines were paid
CMS publishes the fines imposed, not whether or when they were paid.

Historical coverage varies by agency and location. Missing records do not mean that no complaint or violation occurred.

Data architecture: Cierto supplies the source-backed machine-readable bundle. Life by Vardell independently creates the narrative, design, and consumer report.