Overview

This bill proposes to legalize assisted dying in England and Wales under strict conditions. Only competent, terminally ill adults who have a clear and settled wish to end their life, after receiving proper medical assessment and counseling, would be eligible.

Description

The Assisted Dying Bill outlines a process where terminally ill adults can request assistance to end their lives. Key requirements include:

• Eligibility: The individual must be 18 or older, have lived in England and Wales for at least a year, possess the capacity to make the decision, and have a terminal illness with a life expectancy of six months or less (or one month under specific circumstances).
• Declaration: A formal declaration must be made and signed by the individual, witnessed by someone not involved in their care, and countersigned by two independent doctors. These doctors must confirm the individual's eligibility and capacity, and ensure they are fully informed of available palliative care.
• Assistance: The attending doctor may then prescribe medication, which must be self-administered by the individual. A healthcare professional can prepare the medication and offer assistance with self-administration, but cannot administer it.
• Conscientious Objection: Healthcare professionals can refuse participation if they have a conscientious objection.
• Legal Protection: The bill aims to protect those providing assistance from criminal prosecution.
• Monitoring and Reporting: The Chief Medical Officers will monitor the operation of the Act and submit annual reports to Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify direct government spending figures. However, costs associated with monitoring, regulatory processes, and potential updates to healthcare training programs are likely.

Groups Affected

• Terminally ill individuals: This group could potentially benefit from the option of assisted dying, providing a sense of agency and control in their final days.
• Healthcare professionals: Doctors and nurses may face ethical dilemmas and additional responsibilities in assessing eligibility and providing assistance. They will also be subject to a new set of regulations.
• Families and carers: The emotional implications for family members and carers involved in the process are significant.
• Palliative care providers: This group may experience changes in demand or perception as a consequence of this bill's potential effects.

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