I am Family or a Support Person for a Patient

I am Family or a Support Person for a Patient

The Mental Health Act requires that a facility such as a hospital send a written notice to a near relative immediately after a patient’s admission, discharge or an application for a review panel hearing.

The patient needs to choose a near relative using  Form 15: Nomination of Near Relative. If the patient does not or cannot choose one, the hospital will choose one or send the notice to the Public Guardian or Trustee if there is no information.

A near relative can be a grandfather, grandmother, father, mother, son, daughter, husband, wife, brother, sister, half-brother, half-sister, friend caregiver or companion designated by you. A near relative can also be a legal guardian or a minor and a committee having custody of you under the Patients Property Act. A common law spouse or same sex partner is considered a near relative. In addition, a near relative could also include a representative you name in a representation agreement.

You can also download the Information for Patients sheet here.