Overview

This bill proposes to legalize assisted dying in England and Wales for terminally ill adults who meet specific criteria. It requires a rigorous process involving multiple medical assessments and court approval to ensure the individual's wish is voluntary, informed, and enduring.

Description

Eligibility

Only terminally ill adults (diagnosed with an irreversible condition and expected to die within six months) who are ordinarily resident in England and Wales for at least a year, are aged 18 or over, and possess the mental capacity to make such a decision, are eligible.

Process

The individual must make a written declaration of their wish to end their life, witnessed by someone not involved in their care. Two doctors, one of whom is the attending physician, must independently confirm the individual's eligibility and informed consent. The declaration must then be approved by the High Court (Family Division). A 14-day waiting period (reduced to 6 days if death is expected within one month) applies before the attending doctor may prescribe lethal medication.

Medication and Assistance

The attending physician prescribes and (or authorises another registered health professional to) may administer the medication. The patient self-administers the medication, with the attending or authorised professional remaining present until the individual either ingests the medication or decides against it. The bill also includes provisions for conscientious objection for healthcare professionals.

Monitoring and Reporting

The Chief Medical Officers in England and Wales will monitor the Act's implementation, submitting annual reports to Parliament and the relevant national authorities. The Registrar General is also required to report on statistics annually.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify direct government spending figures. However, costs associated with monitoring the Act's implementation, creating codes of practice, and potential legal challenges are anticipated.

Groups Affected

• Terminally ill adults: Could gain access to assisted dying, potentially improving end-of-life choices for those suffering.
• Healthcare professionals: May face ethical dilemmas and added responsibilities. The bill incorporates provisions for conscientious objection.
• Families and friends: May experience emotional impact depending on their views on assisted dying.
• Legal professionals: Could see increased demand for services related to legal aspects of assisted dying.

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