DCHS Policies

The policy applies to patients who are being treated by Derbyshire Community Health Services Foundation Trust (DCHSFT) inpatient wards, units and pathway 2 care home beds where DCHS employed staff have medical accountability for residents.

DCHSFT recognises and respects the autonomy of individuals who receive treatment. However there are times when severely incapacitated individuals in our care can neither consent nor refuse treatment and the use of covert medications may need to be considered. This policy applies to the administration of medicines for a physical disorder or a mental disorder under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and to medication for a mental disorder administered under Part 4 and Part 4A of the Mental Health Act 1983. Treatment of a physical condition can only be given under the Mental Health Act Part 4 if the condition is a symptom or manifestation of the mental disorder.

Policy Categories

• Clinical