| In 2007, the Mental Capacity Act came into force. One of the important areas covered by the Act is ADRT, which will become subject to statutory law, rather than case law, by which they are currently governed. |
| What
is the purpose of an ADRT? |
An ADRT enables someone
aged 18 and over, with capacity, to refuse specified medical
treatment for a time in the future when they may lack the
capacity to consent or refuse that treatment.
An
ADRT must be valid and applicable to the circumstances
when the ADRT becomes active. If it is, it has the same
effect as a current decision that is made by a person with
capacity: healthcare professionals must follow the decision. |
| The
Scope and Purpose of the Code of Practice to the Mental Capacity
Act |
Provides the framework for
acting and making decisions on behalf of individuals who
lack the mental capacity to do these acts or make these decisions
for them.
“Everyone working with and/or caring for adults
who lack capacity, whether they are dealing with everyday
matters or life-changing events in the lives of people
who lack capacity, must comply with the Act.” |
|
