Close Proximity or Mandatory Transfer? Debating the Inter ‑Hospital Transfer of Citizens with Mental Illness: Clinical Case

Abstract

We present a clinical case of a patient with residence, family and employment in Lisbon who, based on outdated information from the National User Registry, was admitted to a hospital more than 300 km from his residence. The user considers this interfered with family contact and his work situation. It also placed social constraints on transportation back home after discharge. We summarize the legislation that originated the concept of proximity treatment, respecting users right to be treated in their community, a right extended to citizens with mental illness. We debate that, since regulation serves to apply the law, the law should not be harmed by the regulation. We conclude that the medical doctor must question the suitability of outdated information and demand its correction to ensure the treatment provided corresponds to what was expected in the absence of this inaccuracy.