OTTAWA, June 20, 2016 /CNW/ - The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada welcomes the federal government's announcement of a new national framework on eligibility and practices around medical assistance in dying (MAID).
"The new legislation is a game changer for health care professionals in Canada. But medical assistance in dying is only one aspect of end of life care," said Royal College President Dr. Kevin Imrie, MD, FRCPC, FACP. "Fair access to palliative care for all should be a priority, regardless of the new legislation, so that Canadians have options when it comes to making an informed decision for themselves."
The Royal College's first priority is to ensure its members, who will integrate these new care parameters into their practice, have the information and education they require to provide quality patient care.
Resources currently in development include:
- A workshop for residents, and the update of past bioethics cases due to new legislation, will be initiated this fall.
- Two news cases within our bio-ethics curriculum one with a focus on conscientious objection and how a team of healthcare professionals handle MAID when they disagree. Available this summer.
Over the past few months, our members, Royal College Fellows, have expressed strong views for and against the impending legislation. We understand MAID is a complex and polarizing issue. The Royal College respects the decisions of its members whether they choose to participate or abstain from practicing MAID.
The Royal College will also continue to work with its partners to determine how best to prepare doctors for the implementation of MAID. We will consult and collaborate with our specialty committees, national specialty societies, national and provincial regulatory authorities, the Canadian Medical Association (CMA), the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC), the Collège des médecins du Québec, medical schools and other organizations.
The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada is the national, not-for-profit organization that oversees the medical education of specialists in Canada by setting high standards for postgraduate medical education and continuing professional development. In collaboration with health organizations and government agencies, the Royal College also plays a role in developing sound health policy in Canada.
SOURCE Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
Melissa Nisbett, Senior communications specialist, Communications and External Relations [email protected], T: 613-730-8177 ext. 426, Cell: 613-218-9570
Share this article