Request for an Aid-In-dying Drug to End My Life in a Humane and Dignified Manner - California

Request for an Aid-In-dying Drug to End My Life in a Humane and Dignified Manner is a legal document that was released by the Medical Board of California - a government authority operating within California.

FAQ

Q: What is an aid-in-dying drug?A: An aid-in-dying drug is a medication that can be prescribed to terminally ill patients to end their life in a humane and dignified manner.

Q: What does aid-in-dying mean?A: Aid-in-dying refers to the option for terminally ill patients to request a prescription for a medication that they can self-administer to hasten their death.

Q: Is aid-in-dying legal in California?A: Yes, aid-in-dying is legal in California. The End of Life Option Act allows terminally ill residents of California to request and use aid-in-dying drugs.

Q: Who is eligible for aid-in-dying in California?A: To be eligible for aid-in-dying in California, a person must be an adult resident of California, diagnosed with a terminal illness with a prognosis of 6 months or less to live, and able to make informed medical decisions.

Q: How can I request an aid-in-dying drug in California?A: To request an aid-in-dying drug in California, you must have a conversation with your attending physician and submit a written request. Additional requirements and steps may apply.

Q: Are healthcare providers required to participate in aid-in-dying?A: No, healthcare providers are not required to participate in aid-in-dying. They have the right to opt-out and are not obligated to prescribe or administer aid-in-dying drugs.

Q: What safeguards are in place for aid-in-dying in California?A: The End of Life Option Act includes several safeguards, including multiple requests for aid-in-dying drugs, waiting periods, and requirements for independent medical evaluations.

Q: Can aid-in-dying be used by non-terminally ill individuals?A: No, aid-in-dying is specifically for terminally ill patients with a prognosis of 6 months or less to live. It cannot be used by non-terminally ill individuals.

Q: What is the role of the attending physician in aid-in-dying?A: The attending physician's role in aid-in-dying is to evaluate the patient's eligibility, discuss all end-of-life options, and prescribe the aid-in-dying medication if the patient meets the criteria.

Q: Does aid-in-dying affect the patient's life insurance or other benefits?A: Under California law, a person's decision to request aid-in-dying does not affect their life insurance or other benefits. However, it's advisable to review individual policy terms and conditions.