An Ontario court says doctors who have a moral or religious objection to treatments such as assisted dying, contraception or abortions have to refer patients to another doctor who can provide the service. In a ruling released Wednesday, the divisional court said that though the policy does limit doctors' religious freedom, the breach is justified. "The goal of ensuring access to health care, in particular equitable access to health care, is pressing and substantial. "We believe the effective referral policy strikes a fair, sensible balance between a physician's right to conscience or moral objection and a patient's right to care. We are grateful that the judges' decision puts patients first," said Dying With Dignity CEO Shanaaz Gokool, in a statement.

Source: CBC News January 31, 2018 20:37 UTC