Referral of a detention authorisation (transfer to a Residential Aged Care Facility)
In certain circumstances, a substitute decision-maker under an advance care directive can authorise a person’s transfer from an incorporated hospital to a Residential Aged Care Facility (RACF) and approve their detention during the transfer and whilst residing at the facility.
The authorisation must be made in writing before the person is discharged from hospital, with a copy provided to the hospital. SA Health has developed a standard authorisation form for completion by the SDM and relevant clinicians. You can find out further information on SA Health’s website.
Following discharge, the hospital must refer the matter to SACAT as soon as reasonably practicable. The referral must include the written authorisation and details of the care arrangements in place at the Residential Aged Care Facility.
SACAT is required to review the detention authorisation within six months of receiving the referral and at least annually thereafter if the authorisation remains in effect. Following a review, SACAT may:
- Revoke the authorisation if there are no longer proper grounds for detention.
- Continue the authorisation if appropriate grounds remain.
- Vary the terms of the detention authorisation.
Once it receives a referral from the hospital, SACAT will contact the person, the substitute-decision maker/s, Residential Aged Care Facility and any other interested persons.
