Under MHCA 2017, what is the MAXIMUM initial period for which a person can be admitted as an 'independent patient' (previously voluntary admission) without review, and who can admit them?
- A 72 hours; any registered medical practitioner
- B 30 days; psychiatrist only, after assessment confirming capacity and voluntariness
- C 30 days; with requirement for review before extension, and the person must have capacity and consent ✓
- D 90 days initially; any mental health professional can extend indefinitely
Correct answer: C. 30 days; with requirement for review before extension, and the person must have capacity and consent
Explanation
Under MHCA 2017, an 'independent patient' (Section 86) is a person with capacity who voluntarily admits himself. The initial admission is for up to 30 days, after which it requires review and further consent. This replaced the old 'voluntary admission' under MHA 1987. Critically, the person must have capacity to consent to admission; if capacity is lacking, the supported admission (nominated representative/guardian) pathway applies. Only psychiatrists can certify admission. This protects patient autonomy while allowing treatment.
Reference: Kaplan & Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry, 11th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.