<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8'?>
<regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" citation="COMAR 07.02.16.06" title_num="07" subtitle_num="02" chapter_num="16" heading="Protective Service Investigation.">
  <paragraph num="A.">
    <text>The investigation shall include:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>A face-to-face interview with the vulnerable adult; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Information gathered from the adult and collateral contacts.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="B.">
    <text>The investigation shall be directed to:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>A determination of whether the individual is a vulnerable adult; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Whether there has been abuse, neglect, self-neglect, or exploitation.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="C.">
    <text>If there is a finding of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult, the investigation shall include information regarding:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>The nature, cause, and extent of the abuse, neglect, and exploitation; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>The identity of the individual or individuals responsible for the abuse, neglect, and exploitation.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="D.">
    <text>The information collected shall include:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Facts about whether the adult is unable to provide for his daily needs sufficiently to protect his health, welfare, or safety;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Psycho-social factors affecting functioning of the adult;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>Medical factors affecting functioning of the adult; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(4)">
      <text>Environmental factors affecting the adult, including housing, availability of transportation, and income.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="E.">
    <text>The local department shall secure the cooperation of the vulnerable adult to the extent possible.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="F.">
    <text>The local department shall inform the referring party when the investigation begins and the name of the assigned caseworker. Except in accordance with a court order, local departments may not share information on a case unless it furthers the investigation or service provision or is required in reports to law enforcement officials.</text>
  </paragraph>
</regulation>