Exploring Voluntary Assisted Dying in Australia

Voluntary Assisted Dying in Australia: Understanding the Process

Along with Victoria, Western Australia has recently implemented active voluntary assisted dying laws. Over the next two years, Queensland, South Australia, and Tasmania will follow suit. But what exactly is voluntary assisted dying, what are the myths surrounding it, and why is it considered a step in the right direction for human rights?

Understanding Voluntary Assisted Dying

Voluntary assisted dying (VAD) involves a process that allows individuals to access medication to choose the manner and timing of their death legally. Currently, it is limited to adults with a disease or illness that is expected to cause death within six months. The term "voluntary" emphasises the individual's choice, "assisted" refers to receiving medical help to end life, and "dying" distinguishes it from suicide.

In Australia, VAD is the legal term. Other countries use terms like "Medical Assistance in Dying" or "physician-assisted suicide." It's essential to note that euthanasia and VAD are not the same. Euthanasia involves a health professional administering the medication, whereas VAD requires the individual to self-administer it.

The Global Landscape

Europe led the way with Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Belgium being the first countries to legalise VAD, followed by Luxembourg and Spain. In North America, nine states in the USA have affirmative laws, along with Canada. Colombia is the only South American country with affirmative laws. However, there are no affirmative laws in Africa or Asia.

The Legal Process in Australia

The laws and processes for VAD in WA and Victoria are similar. Eligibility criteria include being over 18, having Australian citizenship or residency, decision-making capacity, and a terminal illness expected to cause death within six months. Disability or mental illness alone does not satisfy eligibility requirements.

The process involves several steps:

• The first request to a medical practitioner.

• Two assessments by different practitioners.

• Making a written declaration in front of witnesses.

• A final request to the coordinating practitioner.

• Self-administration of medication, usually with loved ones present.

Voluntary Assisted Dying vs. Suicide

Supporters argue that VAD offers a dignified and peaceful death compared to the messy, painful, and often unsuccessful nature of suicide. VAD allows for support from loved ones, painless death, and preserves dignity.

Myths and Debates

Many myths surround VAD, including concerns about a "slippery slope" and religious objections. However, organisations like Dying with Dignity NSW offer rebuttals to these myths. The majority of Australians support VAD, viewing it as a human right to die with dignity and without suffering.

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While laws around assisted dying are divisive, they offer individuals autonomy and dignity in their final moments. Understanding the process and debunking myths are crucial steps toward accepting VAD as a legitimate end-of-life option.

Thank you for joining us at Taboo Education. We hope this post sheds light on a topic often shrouded in misconceptions. Remember to subscribe, like, and share, and feel free to explore advanced care directives for more information.

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