When transferring psychiatric patients to psychiatric facilities equipped to provide a higher level of psychiatric care, ensuring safety and dignity is paramount. The Pennsylvania College of Emergency Physicians (PACEP) EMS committee has identified some challenges in this area. Therefore, the EMS committee convened and through multiple iterations and consensus meetings developed best practice recommendations to guide physicians through these complex decisions. This document outlines key considerations, including patient safety, transport logistics, and the balance between respecting patient dignity and addressing security concerns. It also emphasizes the importance of timely transfers, appropriate use of resources, and reducing the need for interfacility transfers through enhanced psychiatric care availability. These guidelines aim to support emergency physicians in making informed, patient-centered decisions while navigating the logistical and ethical challenges of psychiatric transfers.

Please download and review the entire Psychiatric Transfer Best Practices Recommendations document here.