PHARMACISTS in Victoria are being urged not to raise the issue of voluntary assisted dying with patients.
Professional indemnity insurer, Pharmaceutical Defence Limited (PDL) said most pharmacists will not be impacted by the roll out of the legislation in the state.
"Only three pharmacists working at the Alfred Hospital will be involved in the provision of medication used in voluntary assisted dying," a spokesperson said.
"However, PDL wishes to remind all other pharmacists that they are forbidden to initiate a discussion on voluntary assisted dying with patients or clients.
"To do so can eventuate in a five-year prison sentence.
"If a pharmacist is question on voluntary assisted dying, the client should be referred to their medical practitioner."
Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia (SHPA) CEO, Kristin Michaels, said pharmacists' roles in assisted dying will be crucial.
"It is fitting hospital pharmacists are at the frontline supporting the dignified and respectful implementation of this service in Victoria and, indeed, in any Australian jurisdiction in which similar programs may become legal," she said.
"SHPA members are passionate about person-centred care and committed to evidence-based practice and therefore would be supportive of strict eligibility criteria to request access to voluntary assisted dying."
Pharmaceutical Society of Australia National President, Dr Chris Freeman, said the society supported "pharmacists being involved in this process", but added any discussions "must be instigated by the patient".
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