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When hastening death becomes your reality. voluntary assisted dying implementation in Australia
Abstract   Peer reviewed

When hastening death becomes your reality. voluntary assisted dying implementation in Australia

J. Lacey and M. Rosenbaum
Patient education and counseling, Vol.137(Suppl), 109030
08/2025
DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2025.109030

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Abstract

Background: As of 2024, ten countries have initiated policies legalising voluntary assisted dying (VAD) also referred to as euthanasia, or medical assistance in dying. Initiation of VAD legislation has been accompanied by a myriad of often polarising concerns and misconceptions among health care providers, patients and carers. Exploration of the communication challenges and needs around VAD could help guide education, research and policy. Methods: Starting in November 2023, VAD became a legal option in New South Wales, Australia for people holding decision making capacity and living with an advanced and progressive medical disease, illness, or medical condition, likely to cause death in 6-12 months. This new legislation required significant engagement with clinicians acro ss health services to prepare and ready them for people who may wish to access this service. The VAD team developed a needs analysis through a regional healthcare staff survey which helped guide a strategic education and communication campaign. Findings: The majority (76%) of staff who completed surveys (Total N=2468) supported the legislation. Additional motivators to participate in VAD service included the wish to relieve suffering and respecting patients’ option to choose the time and manner of death. Barriers included fear of the emotional impact, workforce culture and perceived lack of well-being support. In education sessions, communication challenges raised included if, how and when to discuss VAD with patients and colleagues -issues not dissimilar to communication concerns identified in all end-of-life settings. Multiple education modalities were requested including webinars, face to face training and direct emails. Discussion: While VAD is available throughout Australia, it is likely that other countries will adopt VAD legislation in future. Communication around VAD issues are a rich and understudied topic of clinical communication research that could contribute to more effective implementation and education around these policies ultimately enhancing all end-of-life conversations.

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