[Psychiatric disorders and somatic diseases: relevant legislation]

One law in the Netherlands (BOPZ; Bill on Compulsory Admission to Psychiatric Hospitals) regulates the involuntary institutionalisation of psychiatric patients who are considered a danger to themselves or to society, due to their psychiatric disorder. Another law (WGBO; Decree on the Medical Contract) regulates consent procedures for somatic treatment of patients who are incapable of an autonomous decision. Involuntary institutionalisation according to BOPZ should not be used to accomplish somatic treatment without consent of the patient, as this may deprive the patients involved of their fundamental right to refuse treatment.