Colorado medical aid in dying

In Colorado, medical aid in dying is legal under the "End-of-Life Options Act," which was passed in 2016. The Act allows terminally ill adult Colorado residents who have a life expectancy of six months or less to request and receive a prescription for medication that they can take to end their life in a peaceful and painless manner.

In order to be eligible for medical aid in dying under the Act, a person must:

• Be a Colorado resident
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be capable of making their own medical decisions
• Have been diagnosed with a terminal illness that has a prognosis of six months or less
• Be able to self-administer the medication

In addition, two physicians must confirm the diagnosis and prognosis, and the patient must make two verbal requests for the medication, separated by at least 7 days, and one written request, witnessed by two people. The patient must also be informed of other end-of-life options, including comfort care, hospice, and palliative care. With the most recent legislation, the time frame may be shortened in specific cases.

It's worth noting that healthcare providers and pharmacies are not required to participate in medical aid in dying, and some may choose not to do so based on their personal or religious beliefs.

We can work with you and your health care team to establish if you are a candidate for this option.