NSW is the last state in Australia to legalise voluntary assisted dying for the terminally ill.
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WHAT IT MEANS:
* People wanting VAD must be 18 or older, with a terminal illness that doctors believe will cause death within six months
* For people with a terminal neurodegenerative disease, the diagnosis for death is within 12 months
* The illness must be causing the person intolerable suffering that cannot be relieved
* The patient must have the capacity to choose to voluntarily end their life
* The decision must be taken voluntarily, with no duress or pressure, including coercion, intimidation, threats and undue influence
* People with a terminal diagnosis must comply with a rigorous set of rules around consulting with a doctor, seeking a second validating opinion, making a final written request as well as multiple other stages of approval.
* There are offences for misusing VAD, unauthorised administering of prescribed substances as well as obligations relating to the disposal of prescribed substances.
* A VAD board will be established to keep records and monitor data related to how VAD is being used.
Australian Associated Press
