Doctor-assisted dying policy approved by College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan (CPSS) approved a new policy today on doctor-assisted dying. 

The policy outlines the requirements for access to physician-assisted dying. A news release issued by the CPSS Friday stated that the policy specifies that "the attending physician must be available to care for the patient until the patient's death, if the patient so requests." 

The policy, which is in effect immediately, was created for when the current federal law against physician-assisted dying is expected to end in February 2016, the CPSS said. This follows a Supreme Court of Canada decision earlier this year to strike it down. 

Unless a further extension is granted by the Supreme Court after February 2016, the CPSS said it will not be illegal for a doctor to assist a patient to die if the patient consents; the patient has a grievous medical condition, the condition is not remediable using treatments that the patient is willing to accept; and the patient's suffering is intolerable to the patient. 

"The College must uphold the law and take the leadership for physicians in developing regulations and recommendations in preparation for the upcoming legal changes on physician responsibility pertaining to Physician-Assisted Dying," president of the Council Dr. Grant Stoneham was quoted as saying in the press release.

"Council feels that a balanced decision has been achieved by giving thoughtful consideration to all perspectives."

The CPSS said the full policy will be available early next week on the CPSS's website.