Competency Assessments: Perceptions at Follow-up

Abstract

Objectives: 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 rergardless 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.