NordenBladet — The Bill giving minors who are capable of judgement the right to receive psychiatric treatment with their consent passed the first reading in the Riigikogu today.

The Bill on Amendments to § 3 of the Mental Health Act (115 SE), initiated by the Social Democratic Party Faction, will amend the provision of the Mental Health Act that regulates the provision of psychiatric care to minors and persons with restricted active legal capacity. Under the current regulation, it is impossible for a young person under 18 years of age to receive psychiatric care before his or her parent or legal representative grants consent thereto. As an extreme resort, an authorisation by a court can be applied for instead.

According to the Bill, minors who are capable of judgement, and who understand the nature of their illness, the available treatment options and the potential consequences of refusing them will obtain the right to receive psychiatric care with their consent. The explanatory memorandum notes that early and timely medical intervention helps prevent aggravation of illness and enables efficient and effective treatment which in turn helps reduce mental health problems in young people.

 

Source: Parliament of Estonia