SAVES is not affiliated with Exit International / Dr Philip Nitschke and opposes the public availability of a 'peaceful pill'.

SAVES' publication 'Making an Advance Directive for Health Care in South Australia (Under the Consent to Medical Treatment and Palliative Care Act 1995)' draws attention to the role of the Guardianship Board as an alternative method for recording future health care directions. An Enduring Power of Guardianship under the Guardianship and Administration Act 1993, also allows for expression of wishes when no longer mentally competent. If a person elects to use both Acts, a medical agent appointed under the Consent to Medical Treatment and Palliative Care Act takes precedence over an Enduring Power of Guardianship.
It has come to SAVES' attention that there are three aspects of the Guardianship and Administration Act, which may be of interest to members:

• Agents may act jointly or severally
• Agents do not have to sign documents at the same place and time (often difficult due to distances)
• Agents have the power to refuse food and water on the patient's behalf. This option is excluded under the Consent to Medical Treatment and Palliative Care Act.

Further information is available from the Office of the Public Advocate on 8269 7575 or the Dept of Human Services on 8226 8800.