Ch. 3: Saskatchewan Mental Health Services Act

Question 1

True or False: The act permits infringements upon a person’s rights and freedoms

Answer 1

True - only to the extent necessary to ensure that the person receives the care and treatment which he or she requires.

Question 2

Involuntary admission can happen under what 3 circumstances?

Answer 2

1. Under medical certificates
2. Under special orders where s/he has been charged or convicted of a criminal offence
3. Under a court order for a long-term detention

Question 3

How does one receive a medical certificate, and what does it mean?

Answer 3

You need two different certificates signed by 2 physicians (at least one is a psychiatrist). - can be held for 21 days
Both doctors must certify the following:
-individual has mental disorder & needs treatment in hospital
- individual’s mental disorder keeps him/her from understanding that she needs treatment (cannot make informed decision)
-person is likely to cause harm to him/herself or to others or to suffer substantial mental or physical deterioration (if not detained)

Question 4

What is the appeal process?

Answer 4

A review panel in each provincial health region consisting of Chairperson - lawyer, vice-chairperson - physician, and third person - citizen
An individual may appeal to the review panel if s/he disagrees with being held, or treated against their will.

Question 5

What is a community treatment order (CTO) ?

Answer 5

Person may be placed in community for treatment BUT

1. has mental disorder & needs treatment & supervision and does not need to be in hospital
2. In the last two years s/he has been hospitalized for psychiatric treatment against his/her will for 60 days or has had three or more separate admissions.
3. Needed services are available in community
4. Mental disorder hinders them from understanding they need treatment & supervision
5. They are able to cooperate with the CTO
   * If 2 psychiatrists support the CTO - person must comply with order