California's death with dignity laws have raised awareness but accessing these end-of-life options is fraught with difficulties. Many patients are unaware of their rights and struggle to find healthcare providers willing to assist due to moral objections. The article highlights personal stories and emphasizes the need for better guidance and support for those seeking medical aid in dying. Physician Jeff Levine shares his motivation to help others avoid the agonizing endings his father experienced, aiming to improve access to compassionate care for the dying.
I've heard from so many readers who feel the same way but, even though death with dignity has been the law of the land in California for nearly a decade, we remain mystified about how, exactly, to access this kind of care.
Hospitals can, and do, refuse to provide it on moral and religious grounds. Doctors who object have no obligation to refer us to doctors who support it.
It's a horrible, horrible feeling that I recently endured with my dad. But Levine was in a position to do something about it.
Weâll tell you how it works and what to expect and we'll hope that we all pass peacefully in our sleep at 105 and never need it.
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