An Open Letter to New Zealanders
Doctors want no part in assisted suicide
We are committed to the concept of death with dignity and comfort, including the provision of effective pain relief and excellence in palliative care.
We endorse the views of the World Medical Association and the New Zealand Medical Association that physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia are unethical, even if they were made legal.
We uphold the right of patients to decline treatment, as set out in the NZ Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights.
We know that the proper provision of pain relief, even if it may unintentionally hasten the death of the patient, is ethical and legal. Equally the withdrawal or withholding of futile treatment in favour of palliative care is ethical and legal.
We believe that crossing the line to intentionally assist a person to die would fundamentally weaken the doctor-patient relationship which is based on trust and respect.
We are especially concerned with protecting vulnerable people who can feel they have become a burden to others, and we are committed to supporting those who find their own life situations a heavy burden.
Doctors are not necessary in the regulation or practice of assisted suicide. They are included only to provide a cloak of medical legitimacy. Leave doctors to focus on saving lives and providing real care to the dying.
Join us
If you are a New Zealand doctor and would like to add your name to this Open Letter, please email sineadmairedonnelly@gmail.com with your name, qualifications and Medical Council registration number.
‘Doctors say no’ is an Open Letter to all New Zealanders by doctors supporting the World Medical Association and New Zealand Medical Association position statements that euthanasia and assisted suicide are unethical, even if they were to become legal. doctorssayno.nz...
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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5.1% Second half of November
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43.1% 1st December
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17% A week before Christmas
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33.3% Whenever you wish
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
Spotlight on drinking water at rural schools
A national study of drinking water quality at rural schools has found concerning levels of nitrates, E coli and other substances.
Small rural drinking-water suppliers face a growing range of challenges and issues, the report says, including declining water quality in some regions due to intensive agriculture and fewer regulatory requirements.
Spring spruce up
Spring is the season of new beginnings and the perfect time to declutter and refresh your home. Imagine stepping into a space that feels open, organised, and filled with only what truly matters. Whether you’re looking to simplify your life, want to downsize, or just enjoy a more comfortable living space, decluttering is a great way to start.
With these expert tips from decluttering and organising specialist Peter Walsh, you can take small steps toward a clutter-free home that you’ll love spending time in.
Click read more for more article.