Mental Health Act assessment

Mental Health Act assessment

A formal assessment of a person in the UK under the Mental Health Act 2007, which may lead to hospital admission if less restrictive alternatives are not viable. Admission for assessment and/or treatment is compulsory when a person’s mental state is seen to be a risk to his or her own health or safety or that of others. The application is completed by the Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) based on the recommendations of two Doctors. The Mental Health Act 2007 governs the admission of people to psychiatric hospital against their will, their rights while detained, discharge from hospital, and aftercare. The Act applies in England and Wales.