What is a Voluntary Patient?

Voluntary patients, also known as informal patients, are individuals who choose to receive in-patient treatment at a psychiatric hospital without being compelled by legal measures. This choice implies that the patient has the capacity to understand their admission and consents to treatment.

Voluntary vs Involuntary Admission

Unlike being sectioned under the Mental Health Act, where individuals are hospitalised even against their will, voluntary admission is a choice.

It's also distinct from deprivation of liberty under the Mental Capacity Act, which applies when a person can't consent but doesn't meet the criteria for sectioning.

Admission Process

Admission as a voluntary patient typically starts with an evaluation by a GP or psychiatrist. They assess your mental health needs and decide if hospital treatment is necessary. In emergencies, reaching out to emergency services or an A&E department is crucial. Despite this, due to the scarcity of hospital beds, being sectioned might be the only option for admission in some cases.

In urgent situations, contacting emergency services or visiting an GP or A&E department is advisable. Mental health teams may also assess and admit individuals based on their condition. However, due to bed shortages, hospital admission might only be possible if the individual is sectioned.

Legal Rights and Hospital Rules

As a voluntary patient, you're entitled to understand your rights, including the autonomy to leave the ward and give consent for your treatment. Hospitals have universal policies, such as meal times and conduct standards. However, overly restrictive rules affecting personal freedoms, like limited access to personal items or communication, might infringe on your rights.

Pros and Cons of Voluntary Admission

Choosing voluntary admission offers more control over one's treatment and less restrictive living conditions. It might also avoid negative repercussions like discrimination or implications on future job opportunities. However, it lacks certain protections and support available to sectioned patients, such as the right to aftercare under section 117 or a mental health tribunal review.

Treatment and Advocacy

As a voluntary patient, you have the right to refuse treatment. Advocacy services can be instrumental in conveying your needs and rights to healthcare professionals. In Wales, you have the right to an Independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA), even as a voluntary patient.

Temporary Leaves and Discharge

Voluntary patients can request temporary leaves from the hospital for specific reasons, such as family visits or personal errands, subject to approval based on their treatment progress and current health status. Should you wish to permanently leave the hospital, it’s essential for the care team to evaluate your support needs in the community. If leaving is deemed risky, the team might consider sectioning as an alternative.

Post-Discharge Support

Upon discharge, support under the Care Programme Approach (CPA) or Care and Treatment Planning (CTP) (in wales) should be provded. This includes a comprehensive care plan, developed with your involvement, to address ongoing care and treatment needs.

Importance of Physical Health Checks

Regular physical health assessments are crucial for voluntary patients, as mental health can significantly impact physical wellbeing. These check-ups help in identifying and managing any co-existing physical health issues, which are often more prevalent in individuals with mental health concerns.

Handling Emergencies and Changes in Condition

It's important for voluntary patients to know how to handle emergencies or significant changes in their mental health condition. This includes contacting their care team immediately, visiting an A&E department, or reaching out to emergency services if necessary, to ensure timely and appropriate care.