What Does IMCA Stand For?
Answer: IMCA stands for Independent Mental Capacity Advocate. An IMCA is a professional who provides support to someone who is incapacitated, either in the hospital or in the community. They work to ensure that the person’s wishes are heard and respected, and they help to protect their rights.
UK law states that everyone who lacks the mental capacity to make decisions for themselves has the right to an IMCA. The role of the IMCA is to act as an advocate for the person, and to ensure that their best interests are always taken into account.
You can hire an independent mental capacity advocate for yourself, or you can help someone to choose an IMCA on their behalf. The role of the IMCA is to act as the person’s voice.
IMCAS provide free advice and support about what choices are available to them, how they might go about making those choices, and how they can be put into place.
For example, an advocate might help someone to:
– understand the effects of their condition and how it is likely to change in the future;
– access hospital or community services that could improve their quality of life;
– communicate with healthcare professionals and other people important to them; and
– ensure their rights are upheld and respected.
If you need help choosing an advocate, you can contact your local commissioner for social services. If you don’t know who that is, then call the Department of Health on 0161 847 1001 or email [email protected] .