Substance Addiction (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment Act) 2017 (SACAT)

Introduction

The Substance Addiction (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment Act) 2017 (SACAT) is new legislation which will provide for the compulsory assessment and treatment of people who are considered to have a severe substance addiction. Compulsory assessment and treatment is a last resort and the Act can only be used after all other options have been tried without success.

SACAT replaced the out-of-date Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Act 1966 (the ADA Act) on 21 February 2018.

The aims of compulsory assessment and treatment are to:

Protect the person from harm; and
Allow a comprehensive assessment of their addiction; and
Stabilise their health (including medically managed withdrawal); and
Protect and enhance their mana and dignity and restore their capacity to make informed decisions; and
Facilitate continued treatment and care on a voluntary basis; and
Provide an opportunity to engage in voluntary addiction treatment.

Having severe addiction and the inability to make decisions about engaging in treatment for addiction are two essential features for using the Act with someone.

What are the specific criteria that must be met in order to use this legislation?

The person must have a severe addiction problem which places them in immediate danger of serious harm and severely impacts their ability to care for themselves, and
The person must be unable to understand, remember and to make decisions about the treatment options available for their substance use, and
All other options have been exhausted and compulsory treatment is necessary, and
Suitable treatment is available.

How do I make an application?

Anyone over the age of 18 years can make an application. The application can be made by a family or whānau member, or someone like a GP.
You can download an application form from the Ministry of Health SACAT information page (www.health.govt.nz/search/results/SACAT) or contact your local Alcohol and Drug service https://www.health.govt.nz/your-health/healthy-living/addictions/alcohol-and-drug-abuse

For more information on SACAT