The Assessor
Core Values of MCA
The spirit of MCA respects an individual’s autonomy and wishes, and thus the underlying ethical intent/principle. The assessor would have to also be aware of the impact of the MCA assessment on the client.
The figure below depicts the essential considerations that have to be taken into account during mental capacity assessments, regarding the respect for individuals, regardless of mental capacity. Assessors should also be aware of the common mistakes in MCA and myths about decision-making capacity
Professional Concerns of Psychologists doing MCA
These need to be taken into consideration during the process of the assessment.
All decisions about capacity are important and may carry a risk of a negative impact on the individual being assessed. For example, a person’s wishes or rights may be at risk of being deprived.
Assessments about capacity involves conversations about personal issues of our clients, and the psychologists will need to be aware about potential countertransference.
Being aware of our own: personal values, strong views about rights, defensive practice, conflict of interest can help us manage situations that may elicit strong emotions and conflicting views.
The SPS Code of Ethics elaborates on the appropriate conduct an assessor should carry themselves with, and Item 2.5 relates specifically to potential conflicts of interests, as shown in the screenshot below.
Which Psychologists are approved to complete MCA for ADAP?
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Post-graduate qualifications in Counselling, Clinical, Educational, Forensic Psychology or Neuropsychology
At least three (3) years of relevant work experience
Singapore Registered Psychologist (SRP) or Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) Psychologist including Community Psychology Hub (CPH), Ministry of Education (MOE) and Restructured Hospitals (RH)
Certified attendance at ADAP briefing following the completion of this e-learning
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Certified attendance at ADAP briefing following the completion of this e-learning
Directly supervised by certified post-graduate psychologists (e.g. MSF, CPH, SRP supervisor or equivalent) with MCA (ADAP) certification
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Conduct and observe at least part of the assessment
Supervise APs in conducting the assessment
Vet and countersign reports prepared by APs
How can Psychologists support best practice?
Besides applying the fundamental concepts, you can also do the following to support best practice in MCA.
