After the necessary examinations, what must an authorised medical officer do?

When a patient undergoes necessary examinations in a mental health context, the authorized medical officer has the responsibility to notify the Mental Health Tribunal for an inquiry under specific circumstances. This is particularly crucial in situations where the patient's mental health condition may warrant further legal or clinical assessment. The involvement of the Mental Health Tribunal can ensure that the rights and needs of the patient are appropriately addressed and that any further decisions about their care, treatment, or detention are made based on a formal review.

This procedure serves to protect both the patient and the healthcare system, allowing for a thorough evaluation of the patient's situation and consideration of the legal implications surrounding their mental health treatment. Notifying the tribunal is a critical step in ensuring due process, especially in cases where the patient's situation may lead to involuntary treatment or hospitalization.

In contrast, the other choices, while important in different contexts, do not align with the initial duties of an authorized medical officer following examinations. Contacting the patient's family or arranging follow-up consultations may be relevant later in the treatment process, but are not immediate legal obligations in the same way that notifying the tribunal is. Referring the patient for outpatient services likewise would typically occur after the tribunal has made decisions regarding the patient's care path.