Alberta Mental Health Amendment Act 2009
November 3, 2009No CommentsProposed legislative changes support use of community treatment orders
Edmonton … Providing support and clarity around the use of community treatment orders is the focus of Bill 59 the Mental Health Amendment Act 2009, which was introduced in the Legislature on Nov. 2.
“Community treatment orders will provide another way to help and support Albertans with serious and persistent mental health disorders,” said Minister of Health and Wellness Ron Liepert. “Before this new tool is introduced, everyone involved will be fully prepared and clear about their roles and responsibilities.”
Community treatment orders, which will be issued by two physicians (one of whom is a psychiatrist), will enable individuals to maintain their mental health treatment in the community. These orders will reduce the need for hospitalization and help to keep more hospital beds available for individuals who need a greater level of care.
The Mental Health Amendment Act 2009 clarifies:
- The role of psychiatrists in issuing and overseeing community treatment orders;
- The criteria that will be considered by Mental Health Review Panels when reviewing community treatment orders; and
- The Mental Health Patient Advocate’s legal authority to access records and information for investigations involving community treatment orders.
Those sections of the Mental Health Amendment Act 2007 that provide for the introduction and implementation of community treatment orders will be proclaimed in early 2010. All other sections of the Mental Health Amendment Act 2007 were proclaimed on Sept. 30, 2009.
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Health Care, Human Rights