The content of mental health advance directives: advance statements in Scotland

Reilly, J. and Atkinson, J.M. (2010) The content of mental health advance directives: advance statements in Scotland. International Journal of Law and Psychiatry, 33(2), pp. 116-121. (doi: 10.1016/j.ijlp.2009.12.002)

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> Where advance directives in mental health have been introduced concern has been expressed about their content including inappropriate treatment choices, ambiguity, or the impact of decisions on resources. <b>Aim:</b> To examine the content of advance statements in Scotland. <b>Method:</b> A thematic analysis of 55 advance statements presented to the Mental Health Tribunal for Scotland. <b>Results:</b> The format of statements did not always follow the guidelines and there were considerable differences in the content. A total of 96% of the statements included at least one specific treatment refusal. In contrast 45% named specific medications they were prepared to take. 55% contained wider information than ‘treatment’, including setting and other supports. <b>Conclusions:</b> The majority of advance statements contained clear information about preferences as to medical treatment. The additional requests raise questions about what is meant by treatment.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Atkinson, Professor Jacqueline
• Authors: Reilly, J., and Atkinson, J.M.
• Subjects: R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Clinical Specialities; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Centre for Population and Health Sciences
• Journal Name: International Journal of Law and Psychiatry
• ISSN: 0160-2527