Can someone receive palliative care while pursuing VAD?
Yes, a person can usually receive palliative care while asking about or going through the VAD process.
Yes. Voluntary assisted dying (VAD) and palliative care are different, but they can sit alongside each other. A person can ask about VAD and still receive care for pain, breathlessness, nausea, anxiety, family support and planning.
In VAD assessments, doctors usually discuss palliative care and other treatment options with the person.
General information: This page gives general information for people in Australia. VAD rules differ between states and territories. Confirm your situation with the relevant VAD care navigator service and treating team.
Palliative care does not depend on your VAD choice
Palliative care aims to improve comfort and support quality of life for people with life-limiting illness. It is not only for people who have decided against VAD. It is also not only for the final days.
A person may pursue VAD because they want the option available, while still wanting good symptom control and support.
Tell the team what you need
If you are worried that asking about VAD will change your care, say so directly. You can ask:
- "Will you still manage my symptoms?"
- "Can I keep seeing palliative care while I go through VAD assessment?"
- "Who should I call if I am distressed or in pain?"
- "Can you help my family too?"
You may also want to read
- Will my palliative care team still care for me if I ask about VAD?
- What is the difference between palliative care, palliative sedation, stopping treatment and VAD?
- What if I want VAD but do not qualify?