Winnipeg Health Region Issues Reports on End-of-LIfe Conflict

Yesterday, the Winnipeg Health Region released two reports that examine how achieving consensus between patients (their families and representatives) and health care providers over end-of-life issues can be better supported.  Both reports are available here. 

"End-of-life decisions are personal and difficult," Dr. Brock Wright, WRHA Senior Vice President and Chair of the Regional Working Group, said. "But the vast majority are resolved through consensus. What we're trying to do here is put in place the necessary supports so that everything possible is done to facilitate agreement between families and care providers in the very small number of more complex and contentious situations."

The report produced by the Working Group chaired by Dr. Wright recognizes the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba's Statement on the topic is binding on all Manitoba physicians, but that broader WRHA policies and procedures that do not conflict with the College Statement, can be established that apply to all WRHA staff, including physicians. (The CPSM's statement is available on the College's website.)

Both reports raise the issue of whether there should be a legislated or internal review process to resolve end-of-life care issues between patients, families and health providers as an alternative to, or intervening step before, pursuing legal action through the justice system.

Minister of Health Theresa Oswald said she considered the suggestion, but thought it more appropriate for the region to put in place the support and resources to avoid disagreements between patients, their families and health professionals.

"Decisions about end of life care are sensitive, personal and best left to patients, their families and their doctors. We believe efforts should be directed to the resources and education that can support those decisions and prevent or resolve disputes between patients, families and health care teams rather than creating an additional legislated panel for patients or families to navigate in what would already be an extremely difficult situation," Minister Oswald said. "Patients' wishes about end-of-life-care should be identified as early as possible, and initiatives currently being implemented by the WRHA will help to clarify and honour those wishes."