§ 4-304. Patient leaving hospital or institution.

(a) Duty to notify.

If a patient with a confirmed or suspected diagnosis of tuberculosis leaves a ward, emergency room, or outpatient department of a hospital or other institution without the consent or against the advice of a physician or other individual in charge, the physician or other individual in charge must notify the Commissioner of the patient's departure.

(b) When to notify.

Unless a different time is set by the Commissioner or by State law, the notice must be given within 24 hours of the patient's departure.

(c) Action by Commissioner.

The Commissioner may take whatever action is needed to protect the public from that patient.