55 Pa. Code § 5100.85 - Standards

The standards of section 301 of the act (50 P. S. § 7301), for determination of severe mental disability and present danger are to be applied so as to determine whether emergency commitment is necessary under section 302 of the act (50 P. S. § 7302), or whether a court-ordered commitment under section 304(c) of the act (50 P. S. § 7304(c)), is appropriate:

(1) The application of the standards in section 301 of the act, for emergency commitment, including the requirement of overt behavior, shall be based at least upon the following factors:

(i) There is a definite need for mental health intervention without delay to assist a person on an emergency basis;

(ii) The clear and present danger is so imminent that mental health intervention without delay is required to prevent injury or harm from occurring;

(iii) There is reasonable probability that if intervention is unduly delayed the severity of the clear and present danger will increase; or

(iv) There is reasonable probability that the person, with his presently available supports, cannot continue to adequately meet his own needs if mental health intervention is unduly delayed.

(2) The application for the standards under section 301 of the act for a court-ordered commitment, including the requirement of overt behavior under section 304(c) of the act (50 P. S. § 7304(c)), shall be based upon the following factors, among others:

(i) There is no emergency basis and mental health intervention may be delayed;

(ii) The clear and present danger is not so imminent that intervention without delay is necessary to protect life and limb;

(iii) There is reasonable probability that the severity of the clear and present danger is sufficiently low that emergency intervention without delay is unnecessary; or

(iv) There is reasonable probability that the person can continue to meet his needs; however, marginally, by utilizing his presently available supports until a hearing under section 304 of the act (50 P. S. § 7304), can be conducted.

Notes

55 Pa. Code § 5100.85