Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health
The Ministry has published updated guidance for employees of mental health services appointed into the statutory roles of Directors of Area Mental Health Services (DAMHS), duly authorised officers (DAO) and responsible clinicians (RC) under the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992.
These guidelines sit alongside the Guidelines to the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992 and provide specific guidance to support people undertaking these roles.
This document outlines the expectations for statutory officers, including legislative requirements, attitudes, and the required competencies.
The document is intended for responsible clinicians, those who wish to become responsible clinicians, Directors of Area Mental Health Services and anyone else concerned with delivery of mental health services to people receiving compulsory assessment or treatment under the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992.
Please also read the companion document to these guidelines, Human Rights and the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992, which offers guidance to thinking about and applying a human rights approach and supported decision-making when implementing the Act.
