Specialist pharmacists and “care navigators” are being recruited with South Australia allocating $18 million over five years to implement new euthanasia laws. Source: AAP.
The new euthanasia provisions come into force on January 31 after being passed by the state Parliament last year.
A newly appointed lead voluntary assisted dying pharmacist will have a team of three senior pharmacists and a pharmacy technician to allow for the supply and disposal of medications in accordance with the state’s legislative safeguards.
Care navigators will help patients, their families and health practitioners to navigate the voluntary euthanasia process.
Health Minister Chris Picton said implementing the voluntary assisted dying laws in South Australia was a significant milestone and much work was being done to ensure it was introduced safely.
“Appointing appropriately qualified staff will be crucial in ensuring the service aligns with the act and the rights of South Australians living with a terminal illness are protected,” Mr Picton said yesterday.
SA’s voluntary euthanasia or assisted dying laws were passed by state parliament in 2021 but were only gazetted in August.
The Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill had been put to a conscience vote, passing the parliament on its 17th attempt in 25 years. It includes 70 safeguards and a provision that people wishing to die must be SA residents for at least 12 months.
FULL STORY
Funds approved for SA assisted dying laws (By Tim Dornin, Australian Associated Press)
