Transfer to other facilities

The Commissioner may transfer, or authorize the transfer of, a patient from one hospital or facility to another within the Territory if the Commissioner determines that it would be consistent with the medical or psychiatric needs of the patient. Before a patient is transferred, the Commissioner shall give written notice of the transfer to the patient’s guardian, the patient’s parents or spouse or, if none of the foregoing exists or can be located, to the patient’s next of kin or friend, except that if the administrator of the hospital to which the patient is currently admitted has reason to believe that notice to any of these individuals would pose a risk of harm to the patient, then notice may not be given to that individual. In making all such transfers, the Commissioner shall give due consideration to the relationship of the patient to the patient’s family, guardian, or friends, to maintain relationships and encourage visits beneficial to the patient.