Q: Dad is still of good mind. He can reason, make decisions, but has been very depressed and is physically in a bad way. He has an illness that is gradually depriving him of motor control, and is expected to pass within 6 to 12 months. He has expressed a desire to end his suffering, to end his life. At times he is arguing, and it is very emotional. Is there a right to die in California?
R.G., Carson
A: My thoughts are with you, your family and your dad. It is difficult if not impossible to grasp what all must be involved in that decision.
What I can indicate is that in 2016 the California End of Life Option Act went into effect, and was then revised in 2022. The law permits a terminally ill adult, who is a California resident, to request a medication from his or her physician that will bring an end to his or her life. There is a form for the individual to fill out, which is to be witnessed, and which requires certain information. In addition, there are attending physician forms that must be submitted. A very helpful link online about the process and the forms is available through the California Department of Public Health: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/End-of-Life-Option-Act-.aspx. I encourage you to review that link. Further, consultation with counsel or other qualified professional is prudent as well.
Q: I am having an operation that probably is not life threatening, but among the items they ask me to answer is whether I have an advanced health care directive. Please explain what this is, and why I am to answer.
Y.A., Lakewood
A: There invariably is quite a bit of paperwork for you to sign, and in some instances initial, before undergoing surgery. Part of this relates to risks attendant to the surgical procedure (including if you are anesthetized). Some, like the advanced health care directive, tie into those risks, but also provide useful and very critical information to the facility, staff and physician(s).
The advanced health care…
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