Rhode Island General Laws Title 40.1. Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals § 40.1-25-1. Right of access

(1) Communicate privately by mail or orally with any person in treatment.

(2) Inspect all records relating to persons in treatment, provided that the person in treatment, or his or her guardian, gives written permission.

(3) Take whatever steps are appropriate, including posting notice, to see that persons are made aware of the services of the protection and advocacy system, its purpose, and how it can be contacted.  Officials in charge of each facility shall cooperate with the protection and advocacy system in this respect.

(4) Take action it deems appropriate to protect the rights of those criminally insane patients included within the forensic unit of the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals and those previously considered to be within the authority of the Interstate Compact on the Mentally Disordered Offender.

(5) Have access to policies, rules, and regulations affecting care, rights, or responsibilities of individuals residing therein.

(6) Investigate incidents of abuse and neglect of mentally ill individuals if incidents are reported to the system or if there is probable cause to believe the incidents occurred.