The department may examine all public and private hospitals, boarding homes or other establishments whether or not licensed by the department, receiving or caring for developmentally disabled persons and may inquire into their methods of government, and the treatment of all patients thereof.
It may examine the condition of all buildings, grounds, or other property connected with such institutions, and may inquire into all matters relating to their management. For the purposes specified in this paragraph the department shall have free access to the grounds, buildings, and books and papers of any such institution, and every person connected therewith shall give such information and afford such facilities for examination or inquiry as the department requires.
Any evidence found of suspected licensing violations shall be reported immediately to the State Department of Health Services or the State Department of Social Services, whichever has jurisdiction.
(Amended by Stats. 1978, Ch. 432.)