Assisted Dying
Tōtara Hospice provides integrated support services for eligible patients who choose to exercise their right to a voluntary assisted death, helping them navigate the process seamlessly, and offering ongoing care for both them and their whānau before and after their death
What is assisted dying?
Assisted dying refers to the process where a competent adult with a terminal illness, who experiences unbearable suffering that cannot be relieved, may legally request medical assistance to end their life.
This process is governed by the End of Life Choice Act 2019, which came into effect on November 7, 2021. Under this law, strict criteria and safeguards are in place to ensure that the decision is voluntary and well-considered, involving multiple assessments by healthcare professionals to confirm eligibility and the patient’s wish to proceed.
Integrated assisted dying support services at Tōtara Hospice
As a patient at Tōtara Hospice
You are the driver of your journey
Our role is to give you the best chance to be yourself and make informed decisions that are right for you
Assisted dying at Tōtara Hospice
If you choose to access your assisted death at Tōtara Hospice, we can accommodate this and provide full support through this journey
It’s important to note
Under the EOLC Act, you must raise the topic of assisted dying first. Our staff are not legally able to raise the topic with you
Our staff are trained to provide
Accurate information but cannot encourage or discourage you from asking about or accessing assisted dying services under any circumstances
Supporting patient choice
Need assisted dying support from us?
Tōtara Hospice provides integrated support services for eligible patients who choose to exercise their right to a voluntary assisted death, helping them navigate the process seamlessly, and offering ongoing care for both them and their whānau up to and after the patient’s death.