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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1997 Week 8 Hansard (28 August) . . Page.. 2696 ..

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. I wish to table the issues paper Consent to Medical Treatment in the ACT prior to its being circulated for community consultation.

. This paper has been produced as an aid to reviewing the law and practice in the ACT in relation to consent to medical treatment.

. It outlines the law and raises issues to generate discussion and facilitate consultation with health carers and consumer groups concerned. Comments and suggestions are encouraged.

. The final outcome of this exercise is the generation of appropriate legislation and principles for health care practice, so that patients' rights are fully recognised, and health carers are confident in their practices in relation to consent to medical treatment.

. This should also mean a decrease in dissatisfaction and complaints by consumers about the recognition of their rights in relation to consent to treatment.

. The reason for the review of the law is a perception that the law is wanting in this area. As a result there has been confusion and uncertainty in matters dealing with decision making in relation to medical treatment in the ACT, as there has been in other States and Territories.

. The paper has been prepared in consultation with the Community Advocate, health workers and others involved the delivery of health care.

. However, members of the community, especially those who are in one way or another involved in health care, may consider that important issues have not been raised, and their comments are sought on the issues dealt with in the Paper. They are encouraged to let us know that these are.

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