Ailing patients for whom treatment is a means of life prolongation rather than a full recovery may starting February 4 exercise their right to a “natural death” by refusing further medical care. (Image: Korea Bizwire)
SEOUL, Jan. 25 (Korea Bizwire) — Ailing patients for whom treatment is a means of life prolongation rather than a full recovery may starting February 4 exercise their right to a “natural death” by refusing further medical care.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare said January 24 that such patients committed to hospices or receiving other forms of palliative care will be granted the autonomy to choose a “death with dignity” by filling out forms of declaration.
Typically, the four types of life support treatment pertaining to palliative care are CPR, chemotherapy, dialysis and ventilators to aid in breathing.
Any individual 19 years old or above who is currently healthy but nonetheless wishes to avoid receiving life-extending treatment in the future can fill out a form of declaration at a government-designated office.
Besides patients receiving palliative care, patients diagnosed with terminal illnesses, such as stage 4 cancer or full-blown AIDS, can also forego treatment after consultation with their attending physician and a second medical professional.
The forms of declaration once submitted will be available for viewing online. These forms can be altered or withdrawn at any time.
In situations where the patient is unable to communicate his or her desire for or against treatment, the physician will confer with two family members before making a decision.
Since the Ministry of Health and Welfare began to allow the right of refusal on October 16, 54 qualifying patients have exercised their new rights. In 27 of these cases, right of refusal was invoked by family members.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare said January 24 that such patients committed to hospices or receiving other forms of palliative care will be granted the autonomy to choose a “death with dignity” by filling out forms of declaration. (Image: Korea Bizwire)
Among those refusing care, women outnumbered men 28 to 26. By age group, those in their 60s were the most numerous, while 47 had passed away as of January 15.
A total of 107 individuals with terminal illnesses or who are receiving palliative care and 9,336 healthy people have submitted forms of declaration refusing medical care.
S.B.W. (sbw266@koreabizwire.com)
