What is Voluntary Assisted Dying?
Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) refers to the practice where a person with a terminal illness who is experiencing significant suffering, is legally allowed to end their life with medical assistance. This typically involves the prescription of medication to end their life in a dignified manner. The medication may be self-administered or, in some cases where the person is unable to do so themselves, administered by a trained medical practitioner.
How does VAD work in Victoria?
In Victoria, VAD became legal in June, 2019. The process of VAD is highly regulated to ensure it is carried out safely and in accordance with legal and medical guidelines.
The process involves strict safeguards, cooling-off periods, multiple assessments, and a requirement for informed and voluntary consent to protect the individual. To begin, the person must request VAD from a doctor. Previously, patients had to initiate the conversation with their doctor, but recently in Victoria, doctors are now permitted to raise the option themselves. While the patient must still express a clear desire to pursue VAD, a consultation can serve as an opportunity to gather more information. Legally, however, all of this must still occur face to face. For more information on VAD and the processes involved, head to the Victorian Government website.
Services at Inner North Medical Clinic
Our clinic offers consultations in relation to Voluntary Assisted Dying. For these appointments, it is preferred that patients enquire directly. Initial and follow-up consultations generally take around an hour, and they are typically scheduled outside of standard hours to ensure dedicated, uninterrupted time and attention.
Dr Dhanu Giritharan
Dr Dhanu graduated from Monash University in 2015, following a move across the Nullarbor that marked the beginning of his medical journey. With a foundation in Emergency and General Practice, his career has increasingly centred around end-of-life care, particularly in aged care settings.
Working extensively in nursing homes with high-risk and terminally ill patients, he has supported a number of individuals and families through palliative care as well as more recently the voluntary assisted dying (VAD) process.
A personal experience sparked his deep interest in this area, shaping his compassionate and ethically grounded approach to care. Dr Dhanu has completed formal training in Voluntary Assisted Dying and is currently completing a Master of Bioethics, due mid-2025, with a focus on complex decision-making in end-of-life contexts. He is a huge advocate for patient autonomy and dignity at the end of life.
Resources
For the Official Victorian Government Website click here. Includes information on eligibility, the application process, legal safeguards, and available support services.
For Community and Consumer Information click here. Detailed guidance on making end-of-life decisions, understanding the VAD process, and accessing support.
For information on Supporting Your Family Member or Friend Through the VAD Process click here. Includes guidance on how to support a loved one considering or undergoing the VAD process.
Bookings
Bookings for this service are to be made directly. If you would like more information on VAD, please call our clinic on (03) 9988 2015 or get in touch with us via our contact page.
Alternatively, you can book a standard GP appointment with Dr Dhanu to discuss the VAD consultation at our Lygon Street Clinic or our Bluestone Way Clinic (East Brunswick Village).