As Amended
SEC. 43-47-9. Investigations and evaluations; cooperation of physicians and other health and welfare personnel; contracts with agencies and private physicians.
(1) Upon receipt of a report pursuant to Section 43-47-7 that a vulnerable adult is in need of protective services, the department shall initiate an investigation and/or evaluation within forty-eight (48) hours to determine whether the vulnerable adult is in need of protective services and what services are needed. The evaluation shall include any necessary visits to the person, as determined by the department, and consultation with others having knowledge of the particular case. When a caretaker of a vulnerable adult refuses to allow the department reasonable access to conduct an investigation to determine if the vulnerable adult is in need of protective services, the department may petition the court for an order for injunctive relief enjoining the caretaker from interfering with the investigation.
(2) The staff and physicians of local health departments, mental health clinics and other public or private agencies, including law enforcement agencies, shall cooperate fully with the department in the performance of its duties. These duties include immediate, in-residence evaluations and medical examinations and treatment where the department deems it necessary. Provided, however, that upon receipt of a report of abuse, neglect or exploitation of a vulnerable adult confined in a licensed hospital or licensed nursing home facility in the state, the department shall immediately refer this report to the proper authority at the State Department of Health for investigation under Section 43-47-37.
(3) The department may contract with an agency or private physician for the purpose of providing immediate, accessible evaluations in the location that the department deems most appropriate.
SOURCES: Laws, 1986, ch. 468, Sec. 5; reenacted, 1989, ch. 381, Sec. 5; 1990, ch. 493, Sec. 4; 1991, ch. 431 Sec. 3, eff from and after passage (approved March 21, 1991).