Euthanasia and Physician Assisted Suicide

The AMA has released a position statement on euthanasia and assisted suicide. While maintaining its belief that doctors should not be involved in interventions that have the primary aim of ending a person’s life, the AMA has acknowledged the divergent views on this issue. And there has been growing public debate, with a euthanasia bill in South Australia defeated by one vote on 17 November 2016. The Victorian parliament has been investigating options for the terminally ill, with a committee making 49 recommendations covering assisted suicide and amending the Crimes Act, to protect doctors who act within proposed assisted dying legislation.

The AMA clearly sees and is advocating for a role for the medical profession in the development of any laws that may allow euthanasia or physician assisted suicide.

More information about the complex legislative framework for end of life care can be found here in our blog on compassionate care for the terminally ill.

This blog contains general information only. We recommend you contact your medical defence organisation or insurer when you require specific advice in relation to medico-legal matters.