28 Nova Scotia Doctors May Be Forced Out of Practice

The Nova Scotia regulator has a policy that forces physicians to refer for euthanasia and other controversial services.

‍Why is this a problem?
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• For many physicians, a referral is a recommendation for a particular service. Many physicians consider euthanasia to not be in the best interest of their patients. How can they practice with integrity in these circumstances?
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• Many physicians have ethical or moral convictions that make referral impossible. If they receive a complaint, these physicians may be disciplined or even forced out of medical practice in Nova Scotia. Who will care for their patients?
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• Nova Scotia has the most restrictive policy in Canada. It  creates unnecessary challenges in retaining and recruiting more physicians in our already stressed medical system.
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• Nova Scotia already has a system in place that allows patients to access euthanasia without a formal referral. This policy is unnecessary.
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• With the continued expansion of euthanasia, more and more physicians will be unable to follow this policy. People living with mental illness and even sick kids may soon become eligible for euthanasia.