Functional responsibility:
The Mental Health Patient Advocate investigates complaints from or relating to formal or involuntary patients certified and admitted to institutions under the authority of the Alberta Mental Health Act. Complaints investigated may be concerning patients' rights, certification concerns, and care and treatment issues. The Advocate also investigates complaints about facilities that provide care to involuntary mental health patients. The Advocate's mandate does not include voluntary patients or patients detained under other Acts, such as the Criminal Code or Dependent Adults Act.

Administrative relationships:
The Mental Health Patient Advocate is appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council and reports to the Minister of Health and Wellness, who presents the Advocates' annual report to the Legislative Assembly. Between 1990 and 1999, the Advocate reported to the Minister of Health.

Administrative structure:
The Office of the Mental Health Patient Advocate is made up of the Advocate and the Assistant Advocate.