Can you ask what sort of reference your current boss will give you?

You could ask. But she is under no obligation to tell you what she plans to say. Nor is she obligated to tell them exactly what she tells you--after all, she has the right to change her mind.

I don't know why you're transferring and you need not share. But since it's standard practice for new managers to call the old managers, IMO I would tell her about your plans to transfer before she gets that call so she's not blindsided by it.

Best of luck.

Look at your last evaluation as to clues of strength/weaknesses that your current Manager would base her reference to other Manager.

Don't you already know how your Manager feels towards your work performance from your interactions with them?

I perceive a bluntness to your question: asking Manager outright, you may get a response you don' t like.

I would not tip off current Manager until after a interview with new unit.

To be totally fair to employees, our health system does not have Managers contact each other --all hiring strictly via internet application and HR -- minimizes biases.

Best wishes moving forward.

Be aware that you can be told one thing and then the opposite can occur behind your back. I was told that I would be given a good reference by a manager so I gave that person's name as one of my references. After some time without getting hired, I was told by a potential employer that their offer of employment was being rescinded because the person who told me they would be a good reference for me, instead was blacklisting me. I had to get assistance from an employment attorney. You can not trust people.