Why might involuntary commitment or isolation for medical treatment be necessary?

Involuntary commitment or isolation for medical treatment may be necessary primarily when an individual's non-compliance poses a public health risk. This situation arises in cases where a person's mental health condition or infectious disease could potentially harm others, making it crucial to ensure that the individual receives appropriate care and treatment.

For instance, in the context of infectious diseases like tuberculosis, a person who refuses treatment could infect others in the community. In such scenarios, the legal and ethical frameworks allow for involuntary commitment to protect the public and ensure that individuals receive care that mitigates risks to others. This approach balances public safety with the need for medical intervention.

While ensuring compliance with treatment is important, it is the public health risk that fundamentally justifies the use of involuntary commitment in these instances. The goal is to safeguard both the individual and the community from harm, demonstrating the necessity of medical intervention in specific high-risk scenarios.