Emergencies exempt from right to die law

Paramedics and ambulance staff cannot be expected to concern themselves with advance decisions, nor are they expected to under the law.

Debating Right to Die cards and advance decisions in emergencies detracts from the issues around advance decisions for people with long-term illnesses.

Without the existence of a central register, these crucial documents can go unnoticed, especially when patients are transferred between care homes and hospitals, which can lead to their wishes not being respected.

Advance decisions becoming legally enforceable is a major step forward for patient choice.
Rather than being involved in a 'traumatic accident' most of us will receive end-of-life care in a hospital or care home, where, with the implementation of the right registration system, our advance decisions can be easily implemented and our wishes respected.

Ann Leedham, Nurse and Dignity in Dying board member

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