Legislative void means physician-assisted death now legal in Alberta

As of June 6, patients in Alberta are able to request a physician-assisted death amidst a legislative void,as the deadline for federal rules on the matter set by the Supreme Court expires.

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The governing Liberals have introduced Bill C-14 in Parliament, laying out a legislative framework for physician-assisted death, but it was not passed by Mondayasstipulated by the court.

Trevor Theman, the registrar of the Alberta College of Physicians and Surgeons, told CBC Calgary News at 6 that his organization has crafted a standards of practicebased on extensive consultations and discussionsin order to guide its members during this interim period.

Anyone requesting the service of a doctor must be over 18 and suffer from a grievous and irremediable medical condition, he said, aligning with the Supreme Court ruling.

Mental illness

Theman said those suffering from mental illness, in addition to physical illness, should be able to seekdoctor-assisted death.

"I suppose that a patient with a longstanding and serious depression might be the kind of person who might seek that," he said when asked for specifics.

Few Alberta doctors have indicated they are willing to aid in the death of a patient at this point in time, with Theman saying he thought it was"just north of 100."

So why so few?

"I think it's a number of factors, including the factor that it's just early days and this is new," he said."And some, of course, are conscientious objectors. I expect those numbers to grow as time goes on and people gain more experience."

Legal limbo?

Theman would like to see legislation in place, but also wants to ensure there are clear protections for physicians, pharmacists, nurses and social workers who will be assisting patients, as well as for family members.

That said, he doesn't think doctors should be worried about falling on the wrong side of the law.

"It appears to be a pretty straightforward process. I would think that physicians as a group shouldn't feel afraid as long as they follow proper process and our standard sets out that process in great detail," he said.

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