The Quality Mental Health Care Framework builds on the Health Standards Organization/Canadian Patient Safety Institute Canadian Quality and Patient Safety Framework for Health and Social Services and includes the Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s Framework for Safe, Reliable, and Effective Care and Quadruple Aim approaches to the inclusion of providers in quality care.

The Framework identifies 8 critical dimensions that define the quality of mental health care for patients and providers alike.

Appropriate

• the right care, at the right time, by the right team in the right place

Equitable

• accessible, recognizes the systemic inequities and barriers, and ensures my needs are met regardless of my socio-economic status including my age, location, financial status, racial, ethnic, or cultural background, visible or non-visible disability, gender identity, or sexual orientation

Evidence-based

• care that uses scientific, experiential, pragmatic, and/or cultural knowledge and is evaluated over time

Integrated

• Coordinated, collaborative, seamless, includes my support system, and available across the country

Recovery-Oriented

• Care that recognizes my unique health journey and supports me in leading the recovery or life that I desire

Stigma-free and inclusive

• judgment-free, supportive, and safe while respecting my identity, experiences, and preferences

Trauma-informed

• care that recognizes and understands the impact of trauma and ensures I feel safe and supported to exercise my own power in my care

A Positive Work-life Environment

• delivered by providers and staff who feel psychologically safe and supported in their workplace