Sec. 10.21.22.10. Discharge, Suspension, and Discontinuation of Residential Services

A. Discharge Policy. The program director shall:

(1) Collaborate with the Administration's administrative services organization (ASO) to:

(a) Arrange for discharge from the program when services are no longer authorized by the Administration's ASO; and

(b) Discontinue residential services to an individual whose clinical needs exceed the RRP's ability to secure the safety and welfare of the individual or others;

(2) Maintain clearly written policies and procedures for:

(a) The process for discharge from the program; and

(b) Temporary suspension from a residence; and

(3) Discontinue residential services to an individual whose clinical needs exceed the RRP's ability to secure the safety and welfare of the individual or others, including the:

(a) Criteria for discontinuation; and

(b) Progressive steps and interventions that the program will enact before discontinuation.

B. Collaborative Discharge. When the Administration's ASO, in consultation with the rehabilitation coordinator, determines that services are no longer medically necessary, the rehabilitation coordinator shall follow the provisions for collaborative discharge outlined in COMAR 10.21.21.07B.

C. Suspension.

(1) If an individual's clinical needs exceed the RRP's ability to secure the safety and welfare of the individual or others, the RRP program director may ask the individual to leave the residence on a temporary basis, as an alternative to the individual's termination from the residence.

(2) To implement a suspension identified in §C(1) of this regulation, the RRP program director:

(a) In writing, shall inform:

(i) The individual of the suspension and the reason for the determination; and

(ii) When involved and with proper consent, the CSA and the Administration's ASO of the suspension;

(b) Shall give information on placement alternatives; and

(c) May provide temporary housing options.

D. Program's Recommendation to Discontinue Residential Services. If the program director recommends discontinuing residential services to an individual whose clinical needs exceed the RRP's ability to secure the safety and welfare of the individual or others, the program director shall:

(1) Provide written notice of the discontinuation, according to the provisions of COMAR 10.21.21.07D;

(2) When possible, give the individual information about appropriate alternative services;

(3) When authorized, arrange for outreach, by PRP staff, to encourage the individual to access appropriate services; and

(4) Complete a discharge summary in accordance with COMAR 10.21.17.07D(3).