the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool

The MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool (MacCAT) is a structured interview used by mental health professionals to assess a person's ability to make informed decisions, especially in legal or healthcare contexts. It evaluates three key areas: understanding information relevant to a decision, appreciating the situation and its consequences, and reasoning through options. The goal is to determine if an individual can comprehend and deliberate on important choices, such as medical treatments or legal matters. The tool provides a standardized way to assess competence, ensuring decisions are made by individuals who are capable of understanding and weighing information responsibly.