Medical society: 'We need answers' over assisted dying

Doctors say they feel there hasn't been enough engagement with those who would be providing the service

The outgoing president of the Isle of Man Medical Society says the public needs clear answers about how assisted dying will be delivered.

A survey of the organisation's members found 74 percent of doctors in the society oppose assisted dying.

The group says it still has concerns in four key areas:

• The society has highlighted issues over coercive behaviour towards vulnerable members of the community, such as the elderly, disabled individuals and those living with mental health conditions.
• It's also has questions around the regulation of the service, including which drugs will be used, and what protections will be in place for doctors.
• The medical society says it's warned Manx Care that an assisted dying service could threaten to destabilise essential health and social care services on the Island.
• It's also seeking assurances over conscientious objection for medics who don't wish to take part in assisted deaths.

Dr Martin Rankin told Manx Radio there are still many unknowns:

Meanwhile, the newly-elected president of the Isle of Man Medical Society says doctors on the Island haven't had enough engagement on assisted dying.

Dr Vanina Finnochi says many medics have concerns about the process: