New Mexico Administrative Code
Title 8 - SOCIAL SERVICES
Chapter 371 - DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
Part 2 - REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERMEDIATE CARE FACILITIES FOR THE MENTALLY RETARDED
Section 8.371.2.27 - CLIENT RIGHTS
Current through Register Vol. 35, No. 18, September 24, 2024
Any facility licensed pursuant to these regulations must support, protect, and enhance the rights of clients as listed below:
A. Information: Each client or legal guardian must be fully informed before or at time of admission, of their rights and responsibilities and of all rules governing clients conduct.
B. Medical condition and treatment: Each client must be fully informed by a physician of their health and medical condition unless the physician decides that informing the client is medically contraindicated.
C. Transfer and discharge: Each client must be transferred or discharged only for:
D. Exercising rights: Each client must be encouraged and assisted to exercise their rights as a client of the facility and as a citizen and allowed to submit complaints or recommendations concerning the policies and services of the facility.
E. Financial affairs: Each client must be allowed to possess and use money in normal ways or be learning to do so.
F. Freedom from abuse and restraints: Each client must be free from mental and physical abuse and free from chemical and physical restraints unless necessary as part of their treatment plan.
G. Privacy: Each client must be treated with consideration, respect, and full recognition of their dignity and individuality.
H. Work: No client shall be required to perform services for the facility for which they are not paid.
I. Freedom of association and correspondence: Each client must be allowed to:
J. Activities: Each client must be allowed to participate in social, religious, and community group activities, unless the interdisciplinary team determines that these activities are contraindicated for a client. Any such determination must be documented in the client's records.
K. Personal possessions: Each client must be allowed to retain and use their personal possessions and clothing as space permits.