Legislation of euthanasia

The economic and social cost of supporting older people beyond the natural life cycle poses questions of morality. This precipitates governmental discussions surrounding the legislation for euthanasia. Processes for euthanasia involve assessment of whether the individual has the capacity to take the decision, which is carried out by the whole multidisciplinary team.

Proposed workforce impact

• Potential increase in demand for psychiatrists in a different role
• Potential increase in the demand for all mental health staff

Sources or references

• Somerville, (2012), Legalized euthanasia only a breath away, The Globe and Mail
• Roth, (1996), Euthanasia and related ethical issues in dementias of later life with special reference to Alzheimer's

Additional research questions

• Will euthanasia drugs be supplied in pharmacies if euthanasia is legalised?
• Will psychiatrists be involved and in what capacity?

Some of the information in this section is provided by stakeholders and expert groups, and does not necessarily represent the views of the CfWI.