Doctors have been warned not to engage in discussions around assisted suicide with patients, despite the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) adopting a neutral position on the issue.
The Medical Defence Union, has warned doctors that they could face investigation by the GMC if they give advice to patients to help them travel abroad to take their own lives, and urged them not to discuss the issue during consultations.
The RCN’s decision to switch to a neutral position following a detailed consultation has provoked fierce debate over the issue, which has polarised opinions among clinicians and patients.
The BMA recently passed a motion opposing the legalisation of assisted suicide at its annual representatives meeting, and the Royal College of GPs is soon to publish a policy document on the issue, which is expected to oppose changes to current legislation.
Read more at Pulse.
Tags: Assisted suicide
