Voluntary Euthanasia Information Clinics Information for Clients PO Box 37781 Winnellie, N.T. Australia 0821 Tel: 0500-83-1929. Fx: 08-8339-7563 Email: <[email protected]> Dear Client, The following information is provided to prospective clients. If you have any questions about the following material, do not hesitate to ring and ask for clarification. Introduction: These clinics were first established in early 1999 to meet an increasing need for information on this complex topic. Since the overturning of the Northern Territory's "Rights of the Terminally Ill"Act by Federal parliament in 1997, many Australians have sought information about the legal situation relating to voluntary euthanasia and about available methods and drugs that are commonly used by terminally ill people planning to end their lives. Obtaining this information can be extremely difficult. Many doctors will not answer requests for information from patients for fear of contravening legislation that specifically prevents advising, counselling or assisting persons to commit suicide. Without satisfactory answers to these questions many ill Australians have taken desperate measures to end their suffering, often with horrific consequences. The first Voluntary Euthanasia Information Clinics (VEIC) were first trailed in March 1999. Dr Philip Nitschke met with patients in major Australian cities during this period and reviewed each case. In general the meetings were carried out at the client's home, but in certain cases (such as when the patient has travelled from the country) the consultation took place in an organised location. Following the trial's success, the concept was made public and the first Melbourne clinic was held in April 99. This successful 3 day clinic attracted considerable media attention, and received censure from the "Right to Life" and the "Australian Medical Association". On completion of the Victorian clinic the Victorian Medical Practitioners Board announced that they would investigate complaints made against Dr Nitschke by the AMA. Similar complaints have now been lodged with the medical boards of South Australia and Western Australia. At this point though, no action has been yet taken against Dr Nitschke. Clinic Times: There is now a timetable in place for 3-day clinics to be run in all major capitals. Dates identified for some of these clinics can be found on the "Clinics" page: Booking: To be seen at any of these clinics, a client has to ring the national booking number (0500-83-1929) and leave a message indicating this wish. Within a few days you will be contacted and some details gathered by phone. Information will then be sent to prospective clients, and if the client wishes, a specific appointment date will be provided. Eligibility: The policy of the clinic is to talk openly and honestly to anyone who wants detailed information about this issue, but priority is given to those clients who would have satisfied the conditions for assistance under the Territory's 'Rights of the Terminally Ill' Act. This legislation required that a person be terminally ill, over the age of 18, not suffering from depression, and in receipt of good current palliative care advice. Medical records: It is of considerable assistance if clients have in their possession, copies of their medical records or a statement from their doctor that sets out diagnosis, prognosis, treatment given, and a general summary of their condition. Doctors are obliged to provide such information if it is requested, and a reason need not be provided other than the suggestion that a second opinion is to be sought. As obtaining these records can sometimes take considerable time, clients are urged to procure these documents before the clinic. The consultation: This is usually carried out in the patientâs home. If this is not possible, a time will be provided when the client can be seen at the clinic itself. Consultations can sometimes take more than two hours and usually only three people are seen in any one day. Partners, relations, and family members who have been involved in the decision making process with the client are encouraged to attend. Any questions of a medical, legal or social nature can be asked, and total confidentiality will be guaranteed third. Prescriptions for any discussed drugs will not be provided at the clinic. Cost: The consultation is not considered to be "medical", and it is not possible to bill the health care system. The service is provided with no formal cost to the client. This means that the ongoing viability of the clinic program is dependent on the ongoing receipt of adequate donations. Clients will be asked to make a donation to: Voluntary Euthanasia Research Foundation, PO Box 37781, Winnellie, Northern Territory, Australia. 0821. We are often asked by clients what an "average" clinic donation is. Over the first year's operation of the service, donations ranged widely, but averaged $100 to $300, and this has enabled us to put in place the year 2000 program and to pursue our research work into the "peaceful pill". We stress though that no patient has been, or will be, turned away from the clinics for financial reasons. General: Every effort will be made to provide clients seeking help about the complex medical and legal issue of voluntary euthanasia with the accurate information they need so that they are better able to make good decisions about this important issue. The complex legal area one operates in, can sometimes make this extremely difficult. Clients are urged to consider carefully the legal implications of any actions that may choose to take, and to consider carefully the possible consequences of discussing their concerns and plans with contacts who may not be absolutely trustworthy.   VERF (Darwin) January 2000.