Care in the time that remains. Informed consent in end-of-life decisions

Abstract

Law No. 219/2017 recognised the patient’s right to receive the treatment prescribed by doctor for his illness, to refuse, in whole or in part, treatment or to withdraw, at any time, the consent given, even if such withdrawal results in the interruption of treatment. Among the treatments that a patient may refuse or discontinue are those necessary for their very survival, such as artificial nutrition and hydration. From this perspective, the law on informed consent is also a key reference point for end-of-life decisions. This concerns the patient’s right to self-determination, even in the final stages of his life. A right that is very closely linked to the right to health and the right to informed consent by an invisible thread which emphasises the value of human dignity and requires that the requirements, procedures and conditions for giving valid consent to end-of-life decisions be established.