Section 441.34.2. Function.

An alternative diagnostic facility shall:

       34.2(1) Perform a preliminary diagnostic evaluation of a person who is being considered for admission to a state mental health institute on a voluntary basis pursuant to Iowa Code chapter 229 in order to:

        a.           Confirm that admission of the person to a state mental health institute is appropriate to the person’s mental health needs, and that no suitable alternative method of providing the needed services in a less restrictive setting, in or nearer to the person’s home community, is currently available. When results of the evaluation indicate that admission to the mental health institute is appropriate, the evaluator shall inform the institute of the results.

        b.           Confirm that admission to a state mental health institute is not appropriate to the person’s mental health needs. When results of the evaluation indicate that a treatment program, other than that of a state mental health institute, is more appropriate, and the individual agrees, the evaluator shall make arrangements with the alternative program to accept the referral.

       34.2(2) Assist the court and, insofar as possible, provide or designate a physician to perform a prehearing examination of a respondent required under Iowa Code section 229.8, subsection 3, paragraph “b.”