Abstract
This report presents the findings of a scoping review of the literature on the availability of
section 12 doctors for Mental Health Act (MHA) assessments. Over the past two decades,
there have been many accounts of difficulties Approved Mental Health Professionals have
experienced accessing section 12 doctors to take part in assessments. Sometimes this led to
delays in MHA assessments, which can lead to worse outcomes for patients. However, little
is known about possible reasons for these difficulties and any approaches being undertaken
to lessen them. Consequently, we undertook a scoping review and a focused synthesis of
the evidence about reasons or causes underpinning reported problems with accessing
section 12 doctors. In addition to identifying messages from and gaps in the literature, the
review will inform a new research project asking key informants about their views and
experiences.
section 12 doctors for Mental Health Act (MHA) assessments. Over the past two decades,
there have been many accounts of difficulties Approved Mental Health Professionals have
experienced accessing section 12 doctors to take part in assessments. Sometimes this led to
delays in MHA assessments, which can lead to worse outcomes for patients. However, little
is known about possible reasons for these difficulties and any approaches being undertaken
to lessen them. Consequently, we undertook a scoping review and a focused synthesis of
the evidence about reasons or causes underpinning reported problems with accessing
section 12 doctors. In addition to identifying messages from and gaps in the literature, the
review will inform a new research project asking key informants about their views and
experiences.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Number of pages | 35 |
| Publication status | Published - 20 Nov 2020 |