People accessing palliative care may also wish to seek information about, or access to, Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD). VAD gives people who meet eligibility criteria, are suffering and dying, the option to ask for medical assistance to end their life. VAD is one of several choices that may be available to someone at the end of their life. A person’s decision to do so, has no impact on their access to palliative care.
Information about VAD including eligibility criteria and information on the process is available on the Queensland Health Voluntary assisted dying website
The website also provides information on what support systems are available for friends, family and carers.
Other supports include:
Griefline
Griefline offer on-line Voluntary Assisted Dying Support Groups for those who are supporting a friend or family member choosing Voluntary Assisted Dying (pre-VAD). These group programs draw upon the emotional benefits of peer support, in conjunction with evidence-based information to help reduce the stigma that can be associated with VAD.