Community knowledge of voluntary assisted dying: A cross-sectional survey of the public in Queensland, Australia

Abstract

This research, undertaken in Queensland, Australia aimed to explore community members’ knowledge of voluntary assisted dying (VAD) 17 months after it became a lawful option. Adults living in Queensland (n = 1000) completed an online survey about knowledge of VAD as a legal option and awareness of how to access VAD and information about it. Quotas were set for age, gender and geographical region within Queensland. Only 33% (n = 329) of community members correctly identified that VAD is legal and fewer (26%, n = 257) reported that they would know how to access VAD if they wished to. Most community members (86%, n = 858) reported they would access information on VAD online, typically via search engines, and from health and medical practitioners, primarily doctors. Since lack of awareness and understanding are major barriers to seeking and accessing VAD, proactive measures are needed to increase awareness of VAD in the community and among potentially eligible patients.