Medicine and Science from The BMJ Doctors still have questions about the UK's assisted dying bill
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Sep 22, 2025 Kim Leadbeater, a Labour MP and the driving force behind the UK’s Assisted Dying Bill, shares her insights on the proposed legislation and its parliamentary journey. Jamila Hussain, a palliative care consultant, discusses the potential impact on vulnerable groups, emphasizing the need for robust safeguards. Meanwhile, Tobias Good explains the intriguing concept of Target Trial Emulation, shedding light on how observational studies can reveal causal relationships. Tim Feeney offers further insights into evaluating these methods for better evidence synthesis.
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Debate Is Civil And Views Vary
- Kim Leadbeater says debates have been powerful, civil, and include people across the spectrum of views.
- She emphasises the bill aims to offer autonomy and dignity to terminally ill people who want control over timing and manner of death.
Distinguishing Choice From Suicide
- Leadbeater acknowledges concerns likening assisted dying to 'suicide' but rejects that framing as insensitive.
- She stresses terminally ill people often want to live but seek autonomy over dying, distinguishing their situation from suicidal behaviour.
Prioritise Robust Safeguards
- Implement robust, possibly demanding safeguards rather than a quicker, risk-prone process.
- Be open to refining safeguards during parliamentary stages to make the system both safe and usable.