patients who refuse treatment

Question 1

What 3 legal frameworks can be used to treat patients who refuse treatment?

Answer 1

1. Common law: emergency scenarios
2. Adults with Incapacity (AWI)
3. Mental Health Act (MHA)

Question 2

When is an AWI used?

Answer 2

When a patient lacks capacity to make decisions about their healthcare

Usually as a result of a physical issue affecting the brain

Question 3

When is the Mental Health Act used?

Answer 3

When patients with a mental health disorder cannot make rational healthcare decisions due to the nature of their condition.

It must only be used if the patient or other are at risk of harm, and it must be the least restrictive option