Posted on: February 20, 2024
The MHA Infobits newsletter has gone bi-monthly. We’re excited to bring you more extended highlights, MHA educational supports, resources and provincial updates to support your practice.
The topic for February /March 2024 is the new Independent Rights Advise Service
When someone is receiving involuntary psychiatric treatment under the MHA, their privileges to move freely are suspended. However, knowing their rights is a protection that remains while they're being treated in or through a designated facility. Starting early 2024 patients will be able to request assistance of an independent rights advisor to discuss their rights and options under the MHA. The provincial Independent Rights Advise Service (IRAS) service will be gradually rolled out across Island Health.
This issue discusses the nature of the IRAS services, duties and limitations of the Advisors' roles and access for patients under the MHA.
The new February /March issue, as well as past issues, of MHA Infobits are available for direct download on the MHA Intranet site. Tune into The Weekly for your new issue of MHA Infobits on the third week of every month.
Comments and questions or newsletter topic suggestions can be sent to MHASupport@islandhealth.ca
