Medical aid in dying (MAID) is available in nine countries (or semi-autonomous jurisdictions within those countries). But what exactly is permitted? This differs from country to country. Putting aside eligibility conditions and safeguards, let's focus on the procedure itself. There are three basic variations.
1. Self-Administration Only. The physician prescribes a medication but the patient must administer it herself. This is the rule in the United States and Switzerland.
2. Self-Administration Presumption. Self-administration is normally required. But clinician administration is permitted when self-administration is not possible. This is the rule in Australia.
3. Self- or Clinician Administration. Both are equally permitted but the former is rarely chosen when the latter is available. This is the rule in Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, and Spain.
(I have not categorized Austria, Germany, Italy, and Portugal, since the laws are being amended or are not yet implemented.)
No comments:
Post a Comment