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. 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. The Commissioner may take whatever action is needed to protect the public from that patient. City Code, 1976/83, art. 11, §208(a) Ord. 99-548