CALGARY – Alberta Health Services said Monday it is aware of at least four patients who are currently seeking access to a physician-assisted death.
“We are aware that there are four or five individuals who are seeking to have the assessments done so that they’re in a position to make applications to the court,” said Dr. James Silvius, medical director of community, seniors, addictions and mental health.
READ MORE: Calgary woman forced to end her life in BC raises questions about access to physician-assisted death
In January, the Supreme Court gave the federal government an extra four months to come up with a national assisted dying framework, which means legislation is expected in June. Until then, Canadians outside Quebec who are in pain and want help dying can apply to court for permission if they meet certain criteria.
Last month, a Calgary woman with ALS known as Ms. S became the first person outside of Quebec to win the right to access a physician-assisted death. After failing to find a willing physician in Alberta, her family said she had no choice but to travel to Vancouver for care.
“We’re not entirely sure why (Ms. S was unable to find a doctor in Alberta),” Silvius said. “Though we believe she started the process prior to us being ready to provide it.”
READ MORE: Husband of Alberta woman granted physician-assisted death fights to have her name released.
Silvius said since February, AHS has had processes in place allowing it to respond to any court orders and there are now just under 80 Alberta doctors who say they’re willing to help.
Patients who are interested in discussing PAD with a willing doctor can call Health Link for more information.
“What we recommend is that if an individual who is interested in physician-assisted death, they first talk to their own physician… if their own physician is not willing to pursue that with them they can call 811 to find somebody else to provide for them.”
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