Concise Guide to Psychiatry and Law for Clinicians

Book excerpt: Psychiatrists are feeling the chilling effects of increased malpractice liability. Today's changing health care marketplace-exacerbated by the escalating conflict between patient advocacy and cost-cutting policies inherent in managed care-leaves psychiatrists more vulnerable to lawsuits while also undermining their relationships with their patients. This third edition of the "Concise Guide to Psychiatry and Law for Clinicians" equips psychiatrists, psychiatric residents, and other mental health care professionals with a thorough overview of the clinical management of legal issues in psychiatry. Its author, a recognized forensic educator and practicing psychiatrist, encourages psychiatrists to transform the law from adversary to working partner-a partnership that can be turned to clinical account for the benefit of patients. Beginning with an overview of clinical psychiatry and the law, this pocket guide covers every essential aspect of how law affects the practice of psychiatry today: the doctor-patient relationship, confidentiality and testimonial privilege, informed consent and the right to refuse treatment, psychiatric treatment, seclusion and restraint, involuntary hospitalization, the suicidal patient, the potentially violent patient, and therapist-patient sex. Clinicians will find this wealth of knowledge immediately practical and reassuring, psychiatric residents will find it invaluable as preparation for the real world, and lawyers will appreciate its in-depth treatment of complex psychiatric issues. With its glossary of legal terms, case studies, and detailed charts, this clear, authoritative guide reminds us afresh why it deserves its place among the top legalreferences for mental health professionals.