Statement on the Supreme Court of Canada’s ruling

The Supreme Court of Canada has rendered a milestone decision by striking down the law prohibiting doctor-assisted death. The court has given Parliament one year to develop new laws before the ruling takes effect. 

It is critical that physicians have a voice in this process. We must ensure that our patients’ needs are met and that patient safety is upheld. The court decision raises complex questions, such as: What constitutes a “grievous and irremediable” condition? What is “enduring suffering that is intolerable”? What will the process be that allows access yet prevents coercion? We will work with our national organization – the Canadian Medical Association – to ensure physician input is considered on these issues.

We are pleased that the Court decision will allow doctors to follow their conscience in deciding whether to participate in assisted death. Doctors have principled views on both sides of the matter. We believe it is important that, when the new law takes effect, doctors who are opposed to the practice will still need to adhere to the College's professional standards and provide their patients with enough information for them to access care elsewhere.

Doctors of BC continues to advocate for and support a strong palliative care system accessible to all in need. We also continue to urge everyone – regardless of age, life stage or health status, to develop an advance care plan to articulate their wishes at end of life.