Assisted dying, also known as medical aid in dying or assisted suicide, is a health service available in New Zealand since November 7, 2021. Here are some key points about assisted dying:
- Eligibility Criteria:
- To qualify for assisted dying, a person must meet strict criteria:
- Be 18 years or older.
- Be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident.
- Have a terminal illness that is likely to end their life within six months.
- Be in an advanced state of irreversible decline in physical health.
- Experience unbearable suffering that cannot be relieved in a way they find tolerable12.
- To qualify for assisted dying, a person must meet strict criteria:
- Process:
- Assisted dying involves a person who is experiencing unbearable suffering from a terminal illness taking or being given medication to end their life.
- The service follows specific steps, medical assessments, and important safeguards to ensure the person is eligible and making the decision voluntarily, without pressure from anyone else.
- The framework for the service, including eligibility criteria and safeguards, is set out in the End of Life Choice Act 2019.
- The Assisted Dying Service is provided by Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora and regulated by the Ministry of Health – Manatū Hauora1.
- Legal Context:
- Assisted dying became legal in New Zealand through the End of Life Choice Act 2019.
- It allows a person with a terminal illness to request medication to end their life3.
- Important Note:
- Not everyone with a terminal illness will be eligible for assisted dying.
- The decision to pursue assisted dying is deeply personal and must be made by the affected individual without any external pressure14.