Court of Appeal case highlights the need for leadership on end-of-life decision making
The Court of Appeal is currently investigating the case of Mrs Janet Tracey where it is alleged that doctors acted unlawfully by placing a ‘do not resuscitate’ (DNR) order on her records without consultation. The appeal has heard calls for the Government to issue national guidance on the implementation of DNRs.
Whilst the facts of the case are still in dispute, Dignity in Dying and Compassion in Dying welcome any initiative which promotes patients’ views being heard and respected in relation to decisions on end-of-life care and treatment.
Sarah Wootton, Chief Executive of Dignity in Dying and Compassion in Dying, said:
“This case highlights why it is of the upmost importance that people discuss their end of life wishes. This includes having access to information on treatments such as CPR, so as to make an informed decision while the patient still has capacity. The Court of Appeal case is of particular concern if potentially life-sustaining treatment was withheld without the knowledge of a patient’s loved ones.
“Compassion in Dying runs an information line to inform people of their end of life rights and provides free Advance Decisions allowing a patient to state what treatment they would and would not want at the end of life if they have lost capacity. In fact many people who contact us state they would want to refuse CPR in specific situations and it is vital that people are made aware that this is a legally binding option if they have strong views about it.
“We hope that the court’s decision will assist in promoting discussion about these issues, and informing people about their rights.”