PRIORITISING PATIENTS' PREFERENCES: VICTORIA'S NEW ADVANCE PLANNING AND MEDICAL CO6NSENT LEGISLATION

Abstract

The introduction of the Medical Treatment Planning and Decisions Act 2016 Vic signals a profound alteration in focus from best interests substitute decision making, and will result in increased opportunities for patients to control their treatment choices. This will apply for advance care directives, and will also more effectively guide decisions made by a proxy. There will be an increased ability for patients to refuse treatment, and an expansion of the treatment choices covered by legislation. This column explores the impact of the legislation and reflects on its extension, and clinical challenges which may arise from the legislation.