End of Life Choice Act 2019

Coat of arms of New Zealand

End of Life Choice Act 2019 is a significant piece of legislation passed in New Zealand that allows individuals suffering from a terminal illness the option to request assisted dying. This act was a landmark decision in the country's legal and healthcare landscape, reflecting a shift towards providing patients with greater autonomy over their end-of-life decisions.

Overview

The End of Life Choice Act 2019 was the culmination of years of debate, public consultation, and legal scrutiny. It aims to provide a legal framework for individuals who meet specific criteria to request assistance in dying, should they choose. The act outlines strict eligibility criteria, procedural steps, and safeguards to ensure that the decision is voluntary, informed, and free from coercion.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible under the End of Life Choice Act, an individual must:

• Be aged 18 years or older
• Be a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand
• Suffer from a terminal illness that is likely to end their life within 6 months
• Be in an advanced state of irreversible decline in physical capability
• Experience unbearable suffering that cannot be relieved in a manner that the person considers tolerable
• Be competent to make an informed decision about assisted dying

Procedural Steps

The act specifies a detailed process that must be followed for an assisted dying request to be considered. This includes:

• A written request to a medical practitioner
• Confirmation of eligibility by two independent doctors
• A mandatory reflection period to ensure the individual's decision is well-considered
• The option to withdraw the request at any point

Safeguards

A series of safeguards are embedded within the act to protect individuals and ensure the integrity of the assisted dying process. These include:

• Ensuring the person is making an informed decision without pressure from others
• A requirement for the attending physician to discuss alternative options for end-of-life care
• A review by a newly established oversight group to monitor and review assisted dying cases

Public Debate and Referendum

The End of Life Choice Act was subject to significant public debate and scrutiny. In October 2020, a referendum was held alongside the general election to determine public support for the act. The referendum result showed a majority of New Zealanders in favor of the act, leading to its implementation.

Implementation

Following the successful referendum, the End of Life Choice Act came into effect on November 7, 2021. Healthcare providers and legal practitioners have since been working to implement the act's provisions, ensuring that eligible individuals can access assisted dying services in accordance with the law.

Criticism and Support

The act has been both criticized and supported by various groups. Supporters argue that it provides a compassionate choice for those suffering from terminal illnesses, while critics raise concerns about potential pressures on vulnerable individuals and the moral implications of assisted dying.

Conclusion

The End of Life Choice Act 2019 represents a significant development in New Zealand's approach to end-of-life care, offering individuals with terminal illnesses the option of assisted dying under strict legal conditions. As society continues to debate the ethical, legal, and practical implications of such legislation, the act serves as a pivotal reference point for discussions on patient autonomy and the right to die with dignity.