Psycho-oncologists' roles, tasks, and needs regarding requests for assisted suicide - a qualitative interview study on current experiences and future directions

PurposeAssisted suicide (AS) is a socio-political and healthcare challenge. In Germany, AS is legal, with further regulation pending. Previous German legislation drafts proposed involving psychosocial professionals like psycho-oncologists. These are experienced in supporting seriously ill patients and end-of-life decisions. However, there is a lack of studies on their role in AS. This study aimed to explore psycho-oncologists current and future roles, tasks and needs regarding AS requests. MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional, qualitative interview study with psycho-oncologists in Germany. Inclusion criteria were current clinical activity as a psycho-oncologist and having talked to at least one patient about AS. Invitations to participate were distributed via email and social media using the study teams network. Interested participants responded voluntarily (convenience sample). Data were analyzed using Practical Thematic Analysis. ResultsTwelve interviews were conducted (average length of 42 minutes). Participating psycho-oncologists (58% female, 50% up to 40 years, 100% psychology- or psychiatry-related professional background) primarily saw themselves as open-minded conversation partners, both currently and in the future. Opinions differed whether psycho-oncologists should assess capacity for free decision-making. The vast majority rejected participation in realizing AS. They opposed psycho-oncologists having to fulfill mandatory tasks in the context of AS. Key needs for engaging in AS-related work included clinical practice guidelines, legal clarity, and specific training opportunities. ConclusionThis study provides initial insights into (potential) roles, tasks, and needs of psycho-oncologists in AS requests. It can serve as a basis for follow-up studies. Suitable structures and training opportunities should be developed.