Overview

This bill aims to legalize assisted dying in England and Wales for competent adults with terminal illnesses. It establishes a rigorous process involving multiple medical assessments and court approval to ensure the patient's decision is voluntary, informed, and free from coercion.

Description

Eligibility

The bill allows terminally ill adults (aged 18+, ordinarily resident in England and Wales for at least a year) who have a voluntary, clear, settled, and informed wish to end their life to request assistance. A terminal illness is defined as an inevitably progressive condition with a life expectancy of six months or less.

Process

The process involves a formal declaration signed by the patient, witnessed by a non-relative, and countersigned by two doctors (an attending doctor and an independent doctor). Both doctors must independently verify the patient's eligibility and capacity. The High Court (Family Division) must also approve the request within 14 days. The attending doctor (or an authorized medical professional) can then provide the prescribed medication, which the patient must self-administer.

Safeguards

The bill includes provisions for conscientious objection for healthcare professionals, a 14-day (or 6-day in exceptional circumstances) waiting period between declaration approval and medication provision, and a requirement for the assisting health professional to stay with the patient until the medicine is ingested or the process is abandoned. Monitoring and reporting mechanisms are in place to oversee the implementation of the act. Penalties are included for those who would falsely declare for another person or provide false information. The act does not extend to Scotland or Northern Ireland.

Government Spending

The bill does not explicitly state figures for government spending. However, costs are likely to be incurred in monitoring the process, creating codes of practice, and supporting the additional administrative burden on the courts and healthcare system.

Groups Affected

• Terminally ill adults: This group may benefit from having the option of assisted dying under strict guidelines.
• Healthcare professionals: Doctors and nurses will be affected by the new responsibilities and potential involvement in assisted dying. The bill provides for conscientious objection.
• Families and relatives: Families of terminally ill individuals will face complex emotional and ethical considerations. The bill attempts to balance their needs with the autonomy of the patient.
• The Judiciary: The High Court will be responsible for reviewing each application, creating additional workload.

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