Introduction

		Introduction
		Rights Approach
		Patient Supports
		Treatment
		Review Process
		MHCTA Act
		Organizational Links
		Resource Material
		Policy and Forms

Introduction

In December 2006, the House of Assembly passed new legislation focused on the protection and treatment of people suffering from severe mental illness.

Effective October 1, 2007, the new Mental Health Care and Treatment Act represents a new approach in providing interventions and services for people with severe and persistent mental illness.

The new Act also

revises the eligibility criteria that are used to determine what situations and individuals benefit from the authority of the Act, and
expands the range of interventions and services available under the Act

The new Act

supports expanded roles for nurses, nurse practitioners and peace officers;
introduces changes to the roles and operations of the Mental Health Care and Treatment Review Board;
allows for the provision of Community Treatment Orders; and,
requires a mandatory review of the act within five years.