Voluntary Commitment

• Voluntary Commitment occurs when an individual willingly seeks admission to a mental health facility for treatment. The person recognizes that they need help and consents to receive care.

1. Consent: The patient has given informed consent to be admitted and treated.
2. Right to Leave: Generally, patients who voluntarily commit themselves have the right to request discharge at any time. However, this may vary depending on state laws and specific circumstances.
3. Treatment Participation: Patients have the right to participate in their treatment planning and decisions.
4. Confidentiality: Patients' medical records are protected by privacy laws such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).

Coroner's Emergency Commitment

• A Coroner's Emergency Commitment, also known as involuntary commitment or emergency detention, occurs when an individual is deemed a danger to themselves or others due to a mental health crisis but refuses voluntary admission. This type of commitment is initiated by law enforcement or medical professionals under legal authority.

1. Legal Representation: Individuals have the right to legal representation during hearings related to their involuntary commitment.
2. Hearing/Review: They are entitled to a timely court hearing where evidence must be presented justifying their continued detention.
3. Right of Appeal: Patients can appeal decisions regarding their involuntary commitment.
4. Treatment Rights: Even under involuntary status, patients retain rights concerning humane treatment conditions and participation in treatment plans where feasible.
5. Periodic Review: There must be periodic reviews of the patient's status and necessity for continued confinement.

Key Differences:

1. Initiation:Voluntary: Initiated by the patient seeking help.
   Involuntary (Coroner’s): Initiated by authorities due to immediate risk concerns.
2. Consent:Voluntary: Patient consents willingly.
   Involuntary: No consent from patient; based on assessment of danger/risk.
3. Discharge Process:Voluntary: Patient can typically request discharge at will (subjected sometimes by short notice periods).
   Involuntarily: Discharge requires legal processes including court orders or assessments confirming reduced risk levels.