Telehealth for VAD Consults Sparks Legal Debate in Australia

Telehealth for VAD Consults Sparks Legal Debate in Australia

10 Apr 2026

Researchers published in the Australian Health Review analysed 230 studies on the use of telehealth in VAD. They found that telehealth can improve access to care and that, in many cases, its benefits may be greater than the risks.

The study says Australia needs clearer laws, as current rules are confusing and differ between federal and state legislation. This has created uncertainty for doctors providing VAD services.

A 2023 Federal Court ruling also found that telehealth cannot be used in the VAD process, because using phone or video calls may fall under laws against using communication services to encourage or assist suicide.

University of Queensland researcher Dr Helen Haydon said Australia is the only country where telehealth is blocked for VAD, and the legal situation is making things harder for healthcare workers. She added that many doctors are worried about legal action even when simply discussing VAD with patients online.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) says end-of-life care should be patient-centred and may include VAD, but laws must protect both patients and doctors, and ensure proper safeguards and clear rules.

Since VAD laws began in Victoria in 2019, about 14,000 people have applied, and more than 7,000 have died using VAD. Recent data shows most patients are in their 70s, often have terminal cancer, and are receiving palliative care.

VAD use has increased by 40% in 2024–25 and now makes up around 2% of all deaths in Australia.

A separate study of Queensland GPs found wide differences in involvement. Some doctors were not involved at all, while others managed many cases. Doctors said paperwork and training were complex and time-consuming, and many wanted better pay and simpler processes.

Researchers say GPs are well placed to support VAD, but system barriers are stopping wider participation. Around 1,600 trained health professionals currently provide VAD services in Australia.

Dr Haydon said future research should include stronger evidence on how effective telehealth is for VAD.

https://www1.racgp.org.au/

Source: Australian Health Review, newsGP, University of Queensland research

 
 

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