R432-151-18. Transfer Agreements

(1) This section shall apply in addition to R432-150-22.

(2) Each referral to and from the facility shall be governed by criteria that the most effective treatment in the least restrictive environment shall be available and accessible to a resident.

(a) The staff shall assess resident needs and provide necessary services within the facility according to its treatment capabilities.

(b) Services of other facilities shall be utilized when the resident requires care beyond the capabilities of the facility.

(3) Transfer agreements between facilities shall be obtained.

(a) Continuity of resident care shall be a joint responsibility between the facilities involved.

(b) Continuity of resident care is assured by providing:

(i) Reason(s) for the referral;

(ii) Information about the resident such as current treatment, medications, behavior, special precautions;

(iii) Current treatment objectives;

(iv) Suggestions for continued coordination between the receiving and referring facility;

(v) Information whom to contact, such as significant others or treatment coordinator.

(4) Residents shall not be transferred to another facility without prior contact with that facility. The referring treatment coordinator shall contact the receiving facility immediately or within 24 hours to insure temporary placement or admission.

(5) All information pertaining to clients shall be kept confidential and disclosed only by authorized staff to others directly involved in the resident's care and treatment except under the following conditions:

(a) When a resident's written informed consent is obtained to share specific information with appropriate parties;

(b) When an emergency exists with reason to believe there is imminent danger to the resident or others;

(c) When there is a court order to produce specific records;

(d) When the law enforcement agency requires release of specific pertinent information.