Living Will is an overdue step towards human dignity - ADPD
ADPD was the only political party in Malta to include the introduction of living will legislation in its electoral programme
The introduction of the living will will be an important and overdue step towards human dignity, ADPD-The Green Party said on Tuesday.
A living will enables individuals to express their wishes regarding medical treatment in situations where they may later no longer be able to communicate their decisions. Government plans for the introduction of a living will were announced last week and the PN expressed its agreement in principle. The Medical Association of Malta also said it was in favour.
”For many years, ADPD-The Green Party consistently advocated for such legislation. In fact, ADPD-The Green Party has been the only political party in Malta to include the introduction of living will legislation in its electoral manifestos. This proposal reflects ADPD’s long-standing commitment to safeguarding personal dignity, ethical healthcare, and informed consent." ADPD chairperson Sandra Gauci said.
"We believe that any person should have the right to decide in advance the type of medical treatment they desire or refuse to receive in circumstances of serious illness or incapacity. This should include the refusal of aggressive treatment, and the choice of sedation and pain management plans," she said.
ADPD said it will examine the proposed legislation in detail and continue advocating for a framework that fully respects human dignity, patient rights, and ethical medical practice.