Physician-assisted dying: extension for federal legislation and BC guidelines come into play

Physician-assisted dying – it’s an emotional topic, it can be an ethical dilemma, and it’s a game changer in health care as we know it. And while the Supreme Court of Canada has given the federal government a four-month extension to develop legislation, the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC has come out with interim guidelines for our profession.

Doctors of BC is pleased that the guidelines, recently brought forward by the College, protect the right of conscientious objectors who feel they cannot provide physician-assisted death based on their values or beliefs, while at the same time ensuring that patients who want the service are able to access it. In addition, the guidelines provide physicians with a 13 step process that includes the requirement that two separate physicians assess the patient and conclude definitively that the patient is making the decision willingly and voluntarily.  

In the absence of federal legislation, we are pleased to have guidance from our provincial College. However, it is critical that the federal government introduce national legislation so that care for Canadians is consistent across all provinces. The new government has until June 6th to make that happen. Our national organization, the Canadian Medical Association, will continue to advocate for physicians with the federal government. A full outline of the CMA position on this important issue can be found here.

Dr Charles Webb
President, 2015-2016