Nova Scotia introduces reforms to mental health legislation.HALIFAX -- The Nova Scotia Nova Scotia (nō`və skō`shə) [Lat.,=new Scotland], province (2001 pop. 908,007), 21,425 sq mi (55,491 sq km), E Canada. Geography Government has introduced legislation aimed at reforming the province's mental health laws, the first reforms in 30 years. Health Minister Angus MacIsaac Angus “Tando” MacIsaac, MLA (born June 4, 1943 in London, United Kingdom,) is an educator and businessman and the current Minister of Transportation and Public Works of Nova Scotia, Canada. says the proposed act will provide the legal framework for mental health professionals to intervene on behalf of individuals who lack the capacity to determine their need for treatment and ensure that this is done without unduly interfering with civil rights and liberties. The bill introduces: * substitute decision-makers who will be involved in all treatment decisions when necessary, * leave certificates that allow patients to be reintroduced into the community, helping them reintegrate re·in·te·grate tr.v. re·in·te·grat·ed, re·in·te·grat·ing, re·in·te·grates To restore to a condition of integration or unity. re in a planned way. * independent rights advisors who will operate at arm's length arm's length adj. the description of an agreement made by two parties freely and independently of each other, and without some special relationship, such as being a relative, having another deal on the side or one party having complete control of the other. from government and the district health authorities to advise people who are involuntarily admitted, placed on a leave certificate or a community treatment order. Community treatment orders for those who have a history of repeated involuntary admissions will also be introduced. CTOs will be available where assertive as·ser·tive adj. Inclined to bold or confident assertion; aggressively self-assured. as·ser  tive·ly adv. treatment teams are in place. The CTOs will be used to
help people maintain wellness and stability and assist in early
detection of recurring re·cur intr.v. re·curred, re·cur·ring, re·curs 1. To happen, come up, or show up again or repeatedly. 2. To return to one's attention or memory. 3. To return in thought or discourse. illness, aiming at shorter hospital stays. The government's move has the support of the the Nova Scotia Schizophrenia Society and other mental health organizations. 902-456-6386 |
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