According to Oregon's Death with Dignity Act, a terminal patient refers to a patient who has an incurable and irreversible disease that has been medically confirmed and will, within reasonable medical judgement. A qualified patient to request for assisted suicide must be terminal and competent to write a request for medication that would end his or her own life in a dignified matter. It should be signed and dated by the patient and witnessed by two individuals in the presence of the patient, acknowledging the patient is competent and not beening force to sign the request.
The physician makes the initial determination of whether a patient has a terminal disease and is competent to make such a request. He informs the patient of his/her diagnosis and prognosis and the risks of taking the prescription.
In addition, the physician informs patients of feasible alternatives, such as-pain control and refers another physician to consult the patient to ensure patient is capable of making the request. There is a fifteen day waiting period for the patient to change his or her own mind willingly. If the patient still follows through on the request, family members are informed and then the process takes place. |
