Competency assessments: perceptions at follow-up.
OBJECTIVE
To report on the perceptions of assessment of competency and its consequences on a group of clients and significant others at follow-up.


METHODS
Ninety-five interviews were conducted using a carefully developed semistructured telephone interview of 24 clients and 71 family/caregivers, representing the perceptions of about 80 clients.


RESULTS
There was general satisfaction in the competency assessment process. There was a perception that interests and rights were protected. Clients were seen to be less involved in all spheres of decision making regardless of capacity outcome. Clients and families were satisfied with how decisions were made.


CONCLUSIONS
Follow-up study of competency assessment does not support the conclusions previously drawn based on court record studies that assessments are deleterious and frequently result in violations of rights.
Carlin
K
K
Competency Clinic, Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care, North York, Ontario.
Silberfeld
M
M
Deber
R B
RB
Lowy
F
F
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005104:Expert Testimony / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007872:Legal Guardians; D008297:Male; D016743:Mental Competency / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010344:Patient Advocacy / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D010359:Patient Readmission / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010552:Personality Assessment; D010865:Pilot Projects