According to the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act, where can a person not request VAD?

Under the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act, a person is not able to request Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) in an advance care planning document. This legislation requires explicit and direct communication from the individual wishing to access VAD, ensuring that their consent is informed and contemporaneous. Advance care planning documents are typically used for outlining preferences for medical treatment in situations where a person may be unable to communicate their wishes later, but they are not deemed appropriate for requests related to VAD.

Requests for VAD must be made through specified procedures, emphasizing the need for the individual to actively participate in the decision-making process at the time of the request. This safeguards the individual's autonomy and ensures that the decision is made when they are of sound mind and capable of understanding the implications of their choice.

Other methods of requesting VAD, such as verbal requests or written communication, are specifically allowed under the Act, as they underscore the importance of direct, immediate consent by the individual involved. The Act’s structure aims to provide a safe and regulated framework for individuals considering VAD, preventing potential misunderstandings or misinterpretations that could arise from indirect requests or discussions held in advance care planning documents.