Voluntary Assisted Dying

Lutheran Services will allow doctors, nurses, and others who can assist with voluntary assisted dying to visit permanent residents who wish to access voluntary assisted dying. When accessing voluntary assisted dying there may be times when a resident needs to be transferred to meet with a doctor or nurse who is unable to attend the facility, we will help facilitate this. Residents will be able to come back after their appointment and will not be required to move to a different facility if they wish to access voluntary assisted dying.

For people receiving respite care or temporary care who wish to access voluntary assisted dying, the person may need to be transferred to and from another place for some parts of the process. We will facilitate this transfer if it is needed and ensure it does not impact the person’s care or condition. Privacy will be afforded to all residents/clients, their carers, family members, and the healthcare workers supporting them.

A respectful approach will be maintained by all Lutheran Services people in the everyday care of residents who choose to pursue voluntary assisted dying, and to family and friends of such residents throughout the voluntary assisted dying process and any subsequent bereavement. Access to medical, chaplaincy, nursing and care services will not be adversely affected.

For more information about voluntary assisted dying in Queensland, including the contact details for the Queensland Voluntary Assisted Dying Support Service, visit www.health.qld.gov.au/vad.