Queensland GPs & Voluntary Assisted Dying: Barriers to Care Revealed

March 21, 2026 Ananya Mittal - World Editor

Queensland general practitioners, while committed to providing compassionate complete-of-life care, are encountering significant obstacles in supporting patients seeking voluntary assisted dying (VAD), according to new research from the Queensland University of Technology (QUT). The study, published in the Australian Journal of General Practice, highlights a complex landscape where systemic and administrative hurdles limit the capacity of GPs to fully participate in the state’s VAD scheme.

GPs at the Forefront, Yet Facing Friction

The findings reveal considerable variation in GP involvement with VAD, ranging from complete non-participation to managing over 50 cases in the first year of the legislation. This disparity underscores the challenges faced by doctors, particularly those working outside of the public healthcare system. Researchers identified key areas needing improvement: remuneration for VAD services, a more streamlined administrative process, and expanded educational opportunities for GPs.

GPs are often the initial point of contact for patients considering end-of-life options, and their established, long-term relationships with patients position them ideally to provide support through the VAD process. As Dr. Laura Ley Greaves, the lead author and a QUT PhD researcher, explained, their “holistic, patient-centred approach” is invaluable. However, the current system design and the administrative burden are creating significant barriers. Many GPs reported finding the paperwork complex and time-consuming, with concerns about potential errors, especially given the infrequent nature of VAD cases for some practitioners. Confusion regarding patient eligibility criteria was also frequently cited.

The Administrative Weight and Financial Concerns

The study points to a lack of clear remuneration as a major deterrent. Without adequate financial recognition for the time and expertise required, participation becomes unsustainable for many GPs, particularly those in private practice. This financial strain is compounded by the administrative workload. The application process itself, along with the mandatory training requirements, adds to the burden. Here’s particularly acute for GPs who handle VAD cases infrequently, increasing the risk of errors and adding to their overall workload.

The complexities aren’t merely logistical. Some GPs expressed anxieties about navigating the legal and ethical considerations surrounding VAD, highlighting the need for ongoing professional development and support. This need for comprehensive training extends beyond the initial requirements, encompassing updates to legislation and best practices.

What Does Voluntary Assisted Dying Entail?

Voluntary assisted dying, also known as medical assistance in dying, is a process that allows eligible adults experiencing unbearable suffering from a terminal illness to request medical assistance to end their life. It is distinct from euthanasia, where a physician directly administers the medication. In Queensland, as in other jurisdictions with VAD legislation, strict eligibility criteria must be met, including a confirmed diagnosis of a terminal illness with a prognosis of less than six months to live, and the capacity to create an informed decision. Multiple medical assessments are required to ensure the patient meets these criteria and is acting voluntarily. Queensland Health provides detailed information on the VAD framework, including eligibility requirements and the assessment process.

Study Details and Limitations

The QUT-led research involved in-depth interviews with 12 Queensland GPs during the first year of the state’s VAD legislation. The qualitative nature of the study provides rich insights into the lived experiences of GPs, but it’s important to acknowledge its limitations. The sample size is relatively small, and the participants may not be fully representative of all GPs in Queensland. The study focused specifically on the first year of implementation, and the experiences of GPs may evolve as the system matures. Further research, including quantitative data on participation rates and administrative costs, is needed to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities surrounding VAD implementation. Medical Xpress provides further details on the study’s methodology and findings.

Broader Implications and the Need for Systemic Change

The barriers identified in this study have implications beyond Queensland. As more Australian states consider or implement VAD legislation, understanding and addressing these challenges will be crucial to ensuring equitable access to this end-of-life option. The research suggests a need for a national approach to VAD training and accreditation, as well as standardized administrative processes.

The International Conference on Assisted Dying and Other End of Life Care, hosted by QUT’s Australian Centre for Health Law Research next month, will provide a platform for sharing experiences and best practices from Australia and around the world. This collaborative approach is essential to improving the quality and accessibility of end-of-life care for all. SciMex offers additional context on the upcoming conference.

Looking Ahead: Addressing the Barriers

The QUT research underscores the importance of ongoing dialogue between policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the community to refine the VAD framework. Key areas for attention include:

  • Remuneration Models: Developing fair and sustainable remuneration models for GPs participating in VAD.
  • Administrative Simplification: Streamlining the application process and reducing the administrative burden on GPs.
  • Enhanced Education: Providing comprehensive and ongoing education on VAD legislation, ethical considerations, and best practices.
  • System-Wide Support: Establishing a robust support network for GPs, including access to legal advice and peer support.

ensuring that GPs are adequately supported to provide VAD services is essential to upholding the principles of patient autonomy and compassionate end-of-life care.