Arabic version: نائبة تدعو إلى الوصول إلى الاستشارات المتعلقة بالموت بمساعدة عبر الصحة عن بُعد
Emma Vulin, a Victorian Labor MP diagnosed with motor neurone disease, is urging a review of federal laws that prohibit telehealth consultations regarding voluntary assisted dying (VAD). Vulin has made a personal appeal to Attorney-General Michelle Rowland, emphasizing the need for changes to the Criminal Code to facilitate equitable access to VAD consultations, particularly for those unable to travel due to illness.
According to ABC News, the current laws pose significant barriers for doctors wishing to discuss VAD via telephone or video calls. These restrictions could lead to criminal charges for healthcare professionals, despite VAD being legal in most Australian states and territories. Vulin asserts that these laws disproportionately affect individuals in rural areas and those with mobility limitations.
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has echoed Vulin’s concerns, advocating for a dialogue to align Commonwealth and state laws. AMA President Danielle McMullen highlighted that the blanket ban on telehealth consultations contradicts the spirit of existing VAD legislation. She argued that allowing telehealth would enhance care for terminally ill patients, particularly in remote regions where access to medical services is challenging.
Vulin, who was diagnosed with MND in 2024 and is expected to leave politics this year due to her declining health, has been vocal about her potential choice of VAD, stressing the importance of personal agency in making end-of-life decisions. She has expressed that maintaining access to VAD consultations through telehealth is crucial for ensuring that patients can make informed choices without unnecessary barriers.
While there is no immediate plan to amend the Criminal Code, a government spokesperson indicated that the Attorney-General and the Minister for Health are considering the complexities surrounding VAD laws in consultation with state and territory officials. Advocacy groups continue to push for reform, highlighting the growing public support for access to assisted dying across Australia.
