Community treatment orders, which will be issued by two physicians (one of whom is a psychiatrist), will enable individuals to maintain their mental health treatment in the community. These orders will reduce the need for hospitalization and help to keep more hospital beds available for individuals who need a greater level of care.

The Mental Health Amendment Act 2009 clarifies:

• The role of psychiatrists in issuing and overseeing community treatment orders;
• The criteria that will be considered by Mental Health Review Panels when reviewing community treatment orders; and
• The Mental Health Patient Advocate’s legal authority to access records and information for investigations involving community treatment orders.

Those sections of the Mental Health Amendment Act 2007 that provide for the introduction and implementation of community treatment orders will be proclaimed in early 2010. All other sections of the Mental Health Amendment Act 2007 were proclaimed on Sept. 30, 2009.

The Alberta government has a clear plan for a strong economic recovery. An important part of The Way Forward is maintaining support for programs and services Albertans need most, such as health care, education and safe and vibrant communities. For more information on the plan visit Alberta.ca.