REGINA – Doctors in Saskatchewan continue to debate a controversial topic this weekend.
The Saskatchewan College of Physicians and Surgeons is reviewing a draft policy regarding the right to refuse care based on ethical or religious grounds.
The conscientious refusal policy states a doctor can decline to provide a service, such as a blood transfusion or an abortion, but they would be required to refer that patient to another doctor or nurse.
The college was asking for public feedback on the issue and said it’s received more than 4,500 responses. The majority of responses were duplicate form letters, such as one provided by the Saskatchewan Pro Life Association.
Members of the college were expected to vote on the policy this week, but in light of the overwhelming public response, it was deferred.
The college met again Saturday morning for discussion on the topic.
On Friday, a spokesperson with the college said the draft policy will likely be reworded and then sent out again for a second round of consultations and discussions in June.
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