What are the laws regarding end-of-life decisions?

End-of-life decisions in California are governed by the California Natural Death Act of 1976. The act states that any adult who is of sound mind has the right to make medical decisions on their own behalf, including decisions about end-of-life care. This includes deciding whether to receive life-sustaining treatments, such as mechanical ventilation and respirators. Under the Act, individuals have the right to sign and receive an advance health care directive, which is a legal document that outlines an individual’s wishes regarding their end-of-life care. The document can be signed by any adult but is typically signed by someone in their final stages of life or when they are unable to make decisions regarding their own health care. In addition to the Act, the California End of Life Option Act (EOLOA) allows terminally ill adults to request and receive a prescription for life-ending medication. To qualify, individuals must have a life-limiting illness, meet certain criteria, and be determined to have the capacity to make their own medical decisions by two physicians. In conclusion, California has codified laws that protect an individual’s right to make their own health care decisions, including end-of-life decisions. Furthermore, the California End of Life Option Act provides another option for terminally ill adults to end their life with dignity.

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What are the laws regarding end-of-life decisions?

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