Perspectives of cancer treatment providers regarding voluntary assisted dying in Victoria

Intern Med J. 2018 Jul;48(7):770-773. doi: 10.1111/imj.13939.

Abstract

A survey of cancer treatment providers at our institution exploring their perspectives regarding voluntary assisted dying in Victoria and the imminent legislation showed that while almost all were aware of the Bill (92%), reported knowledge and understanding of it was much less (38%). As many clinicians supported the Bill as opposed it (28%); 44% were uncertain of their stance. Most were unwilling to directly provide voluntary assisted dying; if they did, would refer to palliative care services for ongoing support.

Keywords: cancer; dying; perspectives; voluntary assisted.

MeSH terms

  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Euthanasia, Active, Voluntary / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / therapy
  • Palliative Care*
  • Suicide, Assisted / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Victoria