X-Message-Number: 6988
Date: Fri, 27 Sep 1996 19:22:43 -0700
From: David Brandt-Erichsen <>
Subject: from Dr. Philip Nitschke

>From Dr. Philip Nitschke, Darwin, Australia:

This is a brief outline of the issues behind the use of the device in Mr
Dent's case, which I hope is helpful.

The NT Act does not require such a machine. The machine was developed in
response to a series of requests from patients of mine who wish to make use
of the NT law, and who repeatedly restate their desire to remain in control.
The idea of being able to initiate the process and have it completed,
requires a machine. It is true that if one elects to have tablets or oral
medication, one does not need a doctor to hold the glass to the patients
lips, but it is physically impossible to successfully administer a lethal
injection to oneself - hence the syringe driver. The laptop with the
questions, was added later after we received persistant questions about
whether or not some confused or mentally debilitated patient could
accidently start the machine. The computer was simply to be a more
sophisticated switch than the original press button. Although the device has
been critisized strongly as a "computer death machine", this critisism is
not coming from the group of potential users.

Direct participation of the doctor is not necessarily sought by either
patient or doctor. Commonly the patient would rather move the doctor out of
the immediate personal space which the doctor has to occupy if one is to
give the lethal injection by conventional means. Our Act stipulates that the
doctor must remain present, but not necessarily hovering at the shoulder of
the patient like an executioner. This space can then be occupied by loved ones.

Philip Nitschke


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