Summarised by Centrist
Since the End of Life Choice Act came into force in 2021, almost 2500 have applied and almost 1000 New Zealanders have chosen physician-assisted dying, so far.
As the Act undergoes its first review some advocate expanding the eligibility criteria, but others argue for better access to palliative care over easing current rules.
One of the most debated aspects is the rule that restricts eligibility to those expected to die within six-months.
Critics say this is arbitrary, while others say the rule is a safeguard against abuse.
David Seymour, who led the charge for the law, views the rule as a political compromise, leaving many ineligible.
Researcher Aida Dehkhoda comments that many families appreciate having the choice, but questions remain about cases involving dementia.
While some argue for advance directives, palliative care experts caution about the unpredictable nature of dementia. The result may be people being held against their will at that moment and forcibly given a lethal injection.
Also under review will be rules that don’t allow doctors to initiate assisted-dying with their patients.
Professor Sinead Donnelly, a vocal critic, warns that New Zealand could follow Canada’s more permissive path, where euthanasia rates are far higher–4% of deaths are medically assisted compared to less than 1% in New Zealand.
