Developing and piloting the Consumer Experience of Capacity Assessment Tool (CECAT)

Area of Science:

• Medical Law and Ethics
• Psychiatry
• Health Psychology

Background:

• Personal decision-making (DM) autonomy is a human right, but can be compromised by health issues.
• Capacity assessments formally evaluate DM abilities when impairments are suspected.
• The 'consumer' perspective on capacity assessments remains under-researched.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate the Consumer Experience of Capacity Assessment Tool (CECAT).
• To explore the lived experiences of individuals undergoing capacity assessments.
• To identify areas for improving the capacity assessment process from a consumer viewpoint.

Main Methods:

• Development of the Consumer Experience of Capacity Assessment Tool (CECAT).
• Pilot testing of the CECAT with fifteen individuals.
• Qualitative analysis of participant feedback on the tool and assessment experience.

Main Results:

• The CECAT was found to be quick to complete and easily understood by participants.
• Pilot testing revealed diverse perceptions regarding capacity assessments.
• Participants provided suggestions for enhancing the assessment process, particularly regarding communication.

Conclusions:

• The CECAT shows promise as a standardized method for capturing the consumer experience of capacity assessment.
• Integrating consumer perspectives can inform guidelines for more human rights-based capacity assessments.
• Further development could lead to wider adoption of the CECAT to improve patient-centered care.