The state completed preparations for Washington’s new “Death with Dignity Act” on Friday, formally laying out rules for how the law will be carried out and monitored.
The law, which takes effect March 5, makes it legal for physicians to write lethal prescriptions for certain terminally ill patients who want to hasten their deaths.
Official rules filed by the state Department of Health include a sheaf of forms, to be filled out by patients requesting lethal drugs, by attending and consulting physicians and by psychological consultants and pharmacists who participate.
The final rules presented no surprises, differing only slightly from the drafts presented at a public hearing Feb. 10.
“The changes are very minor and technical,” said Pamela Lovinger, a senior policy adviser overseeing the process. “We removed a definition that wasn’t necessary and did a little bit of rewriting so it was more clear.”
At the hearing, opponents of the law argued for tougher requirements for all concerned. Those who supported the citizens’ initiative as it was presented to voters last November praised the department’s efforts.
Voters approved the initiative with a 58 percent majority vote, making Washington the second state (along with Oregon) with such a law.
Under the law, terminally ill patients who are determined competent by physicians and who are expected to die within six months can ask for a lethal dose of medication from their doctor. Doctors can’t administer the drug to the patients; they have to take it themselves.
Participation by physicians and pharmacists is voluntary. According to the new rules, doctors who agree to supply the drugs must file these forms within 30 days of writing the prescription:
• The patient’s completed written request form.
• A “compliance form” documenting, among other qualification requirements, that the patient is terminal, is acting voluntarily, is capable of making decisions, and has been informed of options.
• A consulting physician’s form.
• A psychological consultant’s form.
Pharmacists also have a form to fill out, and after the death, the attending physician must fill out a five-page form documenting the situation in detail.
The Health Department will collect data and issue an annual statistical report. Information it collects won’t be accessible as a public record.
Rob Carson: 253-597-8693
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