Canadian coroner records 428 assisted suicide rule breaches in Ontario since 2018

Ontario’s chief coroner, Dr Dirk Huyer, has reported 428 cases of doctors and nurses breaching guidelines on assisted suicide since 2018.

Instances include clinicians bypassing mandatory waiting periods and failing to document deaths as assisted suicides. A coroner’s report highlighted systemic non-compliance with laws designed to safeguard patients.

In some cases, patients suffered due to medical errors. One incident saw a physician administer incorrect drugs, forcing the patient to endure prolonged agony.

In 2023 alone, 178 violations were identified in Ontario, equating to one every other day. Last year, a quarter of assisted dying providers in the province faced allegations of non-compliance.

Medical experts warn of an “unregulated wild west” in Canada’s assisted dying system.

Critics argue that Ontario’s oversight relies heavily on informal education rather than enforcement. Many violations result in warnings rather than legal action, with no physicians charged for breaching regulations.

Under Canadian law, assisted suicide providers must ensure eligibility, follow safeguards, and maintain detailed records.

However, breaches include failing to assess patients’ capacity and rushing deaths to suit families’ schedules.

Dr Ramona Coelho, a family physician, called for UK lawmakers to learn from Canada’s mistakes as they debate similar legislation.

Reports also reveal socio-economic pressures influencing decisions, with vulnerable individuals seeking assisted death due to poverty and lack of housing.

Rebecca Vachon of the think tank Cardus criticised Canada’s reliance on self-reporting by doctors, warning of systemic abuse and inadequate protections.

Dr Huyer acknowledged the infractions and said Ontario has implemented a new monitoring system. However, experts argue stronger oversight and enforcement are essential to ensure patient safety and uphold public trust.