Can I refuse further treatment if I do not qualify for VAD?
Yes, refusing treatment is legally different from VAD, and adults with capacity can usually refuse treatment even if they do not qualify for VAD.
Yes. Voluntary assisted dying (VAD) and refusing treatment are different legal and medical choices. If you are an adult with decision-making capacity, you can usually refuse medical treatment, even if you do not qualify for VAD.
This may include refusing more chemotherapy, surgery, dialysis, ventilation, antibiotics, hospital transfer, tube feeding or other treatment. The exact situation matters.
General information: This page gives general information for people in Australia. Treatment refusal and advance care laws differ between states and territories. Ask your treating team or a lawyer if there is disagreement or uncertainty.
Refusing treatment is not the same as VAD
VAD involves a legal process to access and use a VAD substance. Refusing treatment means saying no to a treatment that is being offered.
If treatment is refused, the healthcare team should still provide comfort care, symptom relief and support.
Ask what stopping treatment may mean
Before deciding, ask:
- "What is this treatment likely to achieve?"
- "What happens if I stop?"
- "How will symptoms be managed?"
- "Can palliative care be involved?"
- "Can I change my mind?"
Discussion is vital
Before deciding, talk to your family, carers, friends and loved ones. Talk to your treating teams and care providers. Build a realistic picture of what to expect if you were to continue all, some or no further treatments.
I encourage you to have a good understanding of each of these before you make your final decision.