The Utility of Outpatient Civil Commitment-View Presentation

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Video Summary

In this webinar, Dr. Steven Siegel discusses the use of outpatient civil commitment (OCC) for individuals with serious mental illness (SMI). OCC is a legal intervention initiated to protect against imminent threats to the health and safety of individuals due to a mental disorder. Dr. Siegel highlights the provisions and variations of OCC laws worldwide and the outcomes associated with OCC implementation. He discusses the characteristics of OCC patients, who often present with more severe symptomology compared to other patients needing inpatient care. Dr. Siegel also explores the benefits and weaknesses of OCC, as well as stakeholder views and concerns. He emphasizes the importance of improving interactions between clinicians and patients, as well as the need for better post-OCC treatment and care. Dr. Siegel concludes by suggesting that OCC is effective when fully implemented and supported by the mental health system. However, the addition of capacity to refuse treatment criteria, as seen in the CRPD, has increased health and safety threats and criminalized many individuals with SMI. He highlights the need for ongoing research and improvement in OCC utilization and outcomes. Overall, Dr. Siegel's presentation provides valuable insights into the utility and challenges of implementing OCC for individuals with SMI.

Keywords

webinar

outpatient civil commitment

serious mental illness

OCC

mental disorder

provisions

severe symptomology

stakeholder views

post-OCC treatment

CRPD