Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Medical Assistance Services
 
Board
Board of Medical Assistance Services
 
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9/30/22  9:15 am
Commenter: Sue

TDO
 

In regards to the practice of removing a person from their home via order from a magistrate due to a complaint over stability or safety concerns commonly referred to as a TDO order, I suggest that the person be evaluated by a JUDGE and a doctor IN PERSON. The practice of transferring the patient to another facility sometimes hundreds of miles away from their home is not beneficial.  There are laws forbidding the practice of towing a car more than 10 or so miles away from the owner's residence but yet it is acceptable to tow a human being across the state ripping them away from their family and causing mental anguish which does not benefit the person. Perhaps after a true evaluation by a Judge in addition to a doctor,  a new system of checking on the person at home by a family member who agrees to do so in court or a social worker for a determined amount of time could solve this issue, saving the most extreme cases for removal from the home.  I also suggest that sound and credible witnesses be present in court to give evidence to the judge to prove stability or safety concerns. Without this practice the TDO order can be abused to seek revenge on those who may have different views or other issues that could cause conflict. 

CommentID: 181934