Section 15.43. Resolution of unsubstantiated reports

(a) When, upon investigation of a report, it is determined that there is no need for protective services, the report shall be classified as unsubstantiated.

(b) A case opened by an unsubstantiated report shall be closed and information identifying the person who made the report and the alleged perpetrator of abuse, if applicable, shall be immediately deleted from the case record.

(c) For the purposes of substantiating a pattern of abuse, neglect, exploitation or abandonment, the name of the person reported to need protective services and other information relevant to the circumstances which led to the report may be maintained for 6 months in a separate locked file accessible only to limited authorized staff for review when it is necessary to establish that a previous report was made. At the end of 6 months, case records maintained under this subsection shall be destroyed unless additional reports lead to their being reopened.

(d) When an older adult who is the subject of an unsubstantiated report has needs for other services, the older adult shall be informed of the availability of services through the area agency on aging service management system or another appropriate community agency.

The provisions of this § 15.43 amended May 17, 2002, effective May 18, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 2412. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (228905) to (228906).

Notation

Cross References

This section cited in 6 Pa. Code § 15.102 (relating to maintenance of case files); 6 Pa. Code § 15.112 (relating to uses of funding authorized by the act); and 6 Pa. Code § 15.155 (relating to investigation).