Assisted dying bill debate: advice to pharmacists and pharmacy technicians from the UK chief pharmaceutical officers
Published 20 November 2024
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An assisted dying bill is being introduced to Parliament and is being debated in society at large. A bill is also proceeding through the Scottish parliamentary process. We are aware many pharmacy professionals have strong, informed opinions on this important topic but there is a wide spectrum of considered views on it within the professions as in society.
Some pharmacists and pharmacy technicians may be unsure whether they can take part publicly in this debate. In our view it is entirely reasonable for any pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to give their opinions, and that the public would expect that.
There are some obvious things that should be avoided, including:
- identifying individuals you have cared for unless with their consent
- directly engaging patients in debate
- implying that the pharmacists and pharmacy technicians speak for the professions rather than expressing their personal views
This has to be a decision for society as a whole, expressed through Parliament.
Whatever Parliament decides, we believe the pharmacy professions will be unanimous on 2 things:
- that we must not undermine the provision of good end-of-life care for all including the outstanding work done by palliative care clinicians
- that individual pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, and other healthcare professionals, should be able to exercise freedom of conscience
This will, we are sure, be common ground for all sides involved in this complex societal decision.
Andrew Evans, Chief Pharmaceutical Officer for Wales
Alison Strath, Chief Pharmaceutical Officer for Scotland
Cathy Harrison, Chief Pharmaceutical Officer for Northern Ireland
David Webb, Chief Pharmaceutical Officer for England
Elizabeth Fidler, Senior Professional Advisor Pharmacy Technician Practice, NHS England
Richard Cattell, Deputy Chief Pharmaceutical Officer for England