CTO — MRCPsych Paper B MCQ

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ModerateMental Health LawCTOMRCPsych Paper B

In England, a patient's responsible clinician is considering making a community treatment order (CTO) under section 17A of the Mental Health Act 1983. The patient is currently liable to detention under section 3. Which additional professional must state in writing that they agree that the statutory criteria are met and that making the CTO is appropriate?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — An approved mental health professional (AMHP)

Explanation lettering: D = shown as A · C = shown as B · E = shown as C · A = shown as D · B = shown as E

B is correct. A CTO is made by the responsible clinician, but section 17A requires an approved mental health professional (AMHP) to state in writing both that they agree the statutory criteria are met and that making the CTO is appropriate. This provides an additional independent professional safeguard. A second consultant psychiatrist is not required: CTO creation is not a second-opinion process. The GP may contribute to community care but has no statutory authorising role. Hospital managers do not make CTOs, and the nearest relative is not required to agree, although they should be involved where appropriate. The patient must be eligible for a CTO; detention under section 3 is a qualifying civil detention.

Reference: Department of Health and Social Care, Community treatment order (CTO) forms for use under the Mental Health Act: Form CTO1, section 17A, 2020. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/community-treatment-order-cto-forms-for-use-under-the-mental-health-act