Overview

This bill proposes to legalize assisted dying in England and Wales for terminally ill adults who meet specific criteria. The process involves a rigorous application to the High Court, medical assessments by two doctors, and a waiting period before the individual can access prescribed medication to end their life.

Description

Eligibility

To be eligible, an individual must be 18 or older, terminally ill (diagnosed with an irreversible condition resulting in death within six months), ordinarily resident in England and Wales for at least a year, and possess the capacity to make the decision. They must also have a voluntary, clear, settled, and informed wish to end their life, documented in a formal declaration.

Process

The process begins with a declaration signed by the individual and witnessed by someone not involved in their care. Two doctors, an attending doctor and an independent doctor, must independently assess the individual's eligibility, ensuring they are terminally ill, capable of making the decision, and have a settled intention without coercion. They must also confirm that the individual is fully aware of available palliative care. Following High Court approval, a waiting period of at least 14 days (reduced to six days if death is expected within a month) must elapse before medication can be provided. The individual must self-administer the medication.

Conscientious Objection

Healthcare professionals have the right to conscientiously object to participating in assisted dying.

Legal Protections

The bill explicitly states that individuals providing assistance in accordance with the act are not guilty of an offense. Amendments to existing laws, such as the Suicide Act 1961, are included to reflect the new legal framework. The cause of death in registered records will be recorded as “assisted death”.

Monitoring and Codes of Practice

The bill establishes a system for monitoring the implementation of the law and creating codes of practice to guide professionals involved. Annual reports will be submitted to Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill does not provide specific figures on the impact on government spending. However, it is expected to incur costs associated with the monitoring and regulatory processes, and the creation and implementation of codes of practice.

Groups Affected

The groups potentially affected include:

• Terminally ill adults: May be able to access assisted dying if they meet the criteria.
• Healthcare professionals: Will have to follow new regulations and codes of practice. They have the right to conscientious objection.
• Families and loved ones of terminally ill adults: May experience emotional and practical implications.
• Legal and ethical bodies: Will need to address the legal and ethical challenges raised by the new law.

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