Voluntary assisted dying

Voluntary assisted dying (VAD) is a complex issue and there are diverse views on it in society. Some healthcare professional associations and peak bodies have position statements on voluntary assisted dying and related issues; healthcare professionals should be aware of the views of their own professional association(s).

If a patient makes a request to pursue VAD in a jurisdiction where it is legal, it is generally helpful to make a nonjudgmental and open offer of continuing palliative care support (including emotional support), to reiterate the benefits of palliative care, and to reassure the patient that they will continue to be cared for until they die. Consider reviewing the patients’ advance care plan Advance care planning.

Many states in Australia have enacted VAD legislation. If a patient requests assistance to die, discussion and action may take place within the constraints and processes of these laws; be aware of local protocol. Details on state legislation are available from the relevant Department of Health websites in the following states and territories;

• New South Wales
• Queensland
• South Australia
• Tasmania
• Victoria
• Western Australia.

A request for assistance to die cannot be made by a substitute decision maker.

If a patient chooses to undertake VAD, it is also important to consider the impact on and support for palliative care teams.