Australian pharmacists’ experiences with assisted-dying: a qualitative study

Vujanic, S ORCID: 0009-0009-5411-4250, Hughes, S ORCID: 0000-0002-3633-5203, Isaac, S ORCID: 0000-0002-9870-6129, Moore, I ORCID: 0000-0002-0604-5985, Pace, J ORCID: 0000-0002-3664-6052 and Chaar, B ORCID: 0000-0001-8757-9403 (2026) Australian pharmacists’ experiences with assisted-dying: a qualitative study. International Journal of Pharmacy Practice. ISSN 0961-7671

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Abstract

Background
Australia’s assisted-dying legislation includes pharmacists as essential service providers. Their lived experiences, potentially inclusive of ethical, emotional and other challenges, remain underexplored in Australia.

Objectives
This study aimed to explore the experiences of Australian pharmacists involved in assisted-dying practice.

Methods
A qualitative study design was utilised, involving semi-structured interviews with 10 assisted-dying pharmacists from multiple Australian jurisdictions. Data was analysed thematically using a reflexive, inductive approach to identify recurring patterns, meanings and shared experiences.

Key findings
Four overarching themes were developed: (i) working within restrictive legislation; (ii) cultivating a unique skill set; (iii) lived experiences personally transformative; and (iv) professional challenges. Participants highlighted challenges such as inconsistent legislation, communication restrictions and limited education. Pharmacists described their work as emotionally demanding but rewarding, reshaping their views on death, autonomy, and patient care. Conversely, peer mentorship, teamwork and reflective practice enhanced resilience and professional fulfilment.

Conclusion
Pharmacists reported ethical and emotional burdens through exposure to legislative inconsistency, poor preparation and education, and lack of sustainable support systems. Pharmacist wellbeing was being maintained through professional comradery and sense of role purpose.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	1115 Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences; Pharmacology & Pharmacy; 3214 Pharmacology and pharmaceutical sciences
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HT Communities. Classes. Races R Medicine > RS Pharmacy and materia medica
Divisions:	Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Date of acceptance:	31 August 2026
Date of first compliant Open Access:	21 September 2026
Date Deposited:	21 Sep 2026 13:12
Last Modified:	21 Sep 2026 13:12
DOI or ID number:	10.1093/ijpp/riag137
URI:	https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/29480

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