What is the primary purpose of the Massachusetts Mental Health Code?

The primary purpose of the Massachusetts Mental Health Code is to provide a framework for the treatment and rights of individuals with mental health disorders. This code serves to establish legal standards that protect the rights of those receiving mental health care and ensure they receive appropriate treatment. It outlines the responsibilities of mental health professionals, the rights of patients, and the procedures for involuntary commitment and treatment. By having such a framework in place, the code helps safeguard patient welfare and promotes ethical practices within the mental health system.

While regulation of fees, specification of therapy types, and promotion of research may be relevant aspects of the broader field of psychology, they do not capture the fundamental objective of the Mental Health Code, which is primarily concerned with the rights and care of individuals diagnosed with mental health conditions. The code is designed to ensure individuals are treated fairly and with dignity in the mental health system.