South Australian psychiatrists’ view of voluntary assisted dying: A qualitative content analysis

ObjectiveTo explore the views of South Australian psychiatrists regarding rational suicide, their views and experiences of voluntary assisted dying (VAD) and their reported willingness in discussing end-of-life issues with patients and expressing their views regarding VAD with their colleagues.MethodAn online qualitative survey was designed, piloted and sent via email to all members of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) in South Australia and responses were subject to qualitative content analysis.ResultsA range of views were identified, from agreement with the concept of rational suicide and support for VAD citing respect for autonomy and dignity, through to misunderstanding of the psychiatrist's role, ambivalence and a rejection of VAD, grounded in discomfort in assisting death. Not all those in support of the legislation were willing to be involved in the VAD process and some only wanted very limited involvement.ConclusionsThis study highlights that psychiatrists do not have equal understanding of South Australian VAD legislation. We recommend that a learning module for psychiatrists be designed and delivered by the RANZCP.