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Research ArticleARTICLES

The Right to Refuse Treatment: Recent Canadian Developments

Thomas G. Gratzer and Manuel Matas
Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law Online June 1994, 22 (2) 249-256;
Thomas G. Gratzer
MD
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Manuel Matas
MD
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Abstract

In this article, we examine one of the most contentious and divisive issues in mental health law: the right of the involuntary patient to refuse treatment. The recognition of this right can be traced to American case law starting in mid-1970s. The passing of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms in 1982 precipitated somewhat similar developments in Canada. Many provincial Mental Health Acts have been changed to reflect this newly acknowledged right. In addition, there have been two recent court decisions in Canada, Thwaites v. Health Sciences Center and Fleming v. Reid, which reflect the impact of the Canadian Charter on this issue. The right to refuse treatment has implications for the field of psychiatry.

  • Copyright © 1994, The American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law
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Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law Online: 22 (2)
Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law Online
Vol. 22, Issue 2
1 Jun 1994
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The Right to Refuse Treatment: Recent Canadian Developments
Thomas G. Gratzer, Manuel Matas
Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law Online Jun 1994, 22 (2) 249-256;

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The Right to Refuse Treatment: Recent Canadian Developments
Thomas G. Gratzer, Manuel Matas
Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law Online Jun 1994, 22 (2) 249-256;
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