AMA releases position on Euthanasia and Physician Assisted Suicide

• The AMA believes that doctors should not be involved in interventions that have as their primary intention the ending of a person’s life. This does not include the discontinuation of treatments that are of no medical benefit to a dying patient. 
• The AMA recognises there are divergent views within the medical profession and the broader community in relation to euthanasia and physician assisted suicide. 
• The AMA acknowledges that laws in relation to euthanasia and physician assisted suicide are ultimately a matter for society and government. 
• If governments decide that laws should be changed to allow for the practice of euthanasia and/or physician assisted suicide, the medical profession must be involved in the development of relevant legislation, regulations and guidelines which protect:
• all doctors acting within the law;
• vulnerable patients – such as those who may be coerced or be susceptible to undue influence, or those who may consider themselves to be a burden to their families, carers or society;
• patients and doctors who do not want to participate; and
• the functioning of the health system as a whole.
• Any change to the laws in relation to euthanasia and/or physician assisted suicide must never compromise the provision and resourcing of end of life care and palliative care services. 
• Doctors are advised to always act within the law to help their patients achieve a dignified and comfortable death. 

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Read AMA Position Statement on Euthanasia and Physician Assisted Suicide 2016