CALIFORNIA END OF LIFE OPTION ACT
Understanding your rights and options.
Clear information for a deeply personal decision.
California’s End of Life Option Act allows certain terminally ill adults who meet specific requirements to request medical aid in dying. Understanding the law, eligibility requirements and process can help you make informed decisions about your care.
About the Law
What is the End of Life Option Act?
California’s End of Life Option Act provides a legal pathway for qualifying terminally ill adults to request medication for medical aid in dying. The law includes specific safeguards and requirements, and participation is entirely voluntary at every step.
Eligibility
Who may qualify?
Eligibility is determined through the process required by California law. In general, a patient must meet specific medical and decision-making requirements.
18 years of age or older
Diagnosed with an incurable and irreversible terminal illness
Meet the prognosis requirement established under California law
Able to make informed medical decisions
Make the request voluntarily and without coercion
Be able to self-administer the medication
Meeting these general criteria does not by itself establish eligibility. Qualification must be determined through the legally required process.
Voluntary Participation
The decision remains yours.
Participation under the Act is voluntary. Exploring aid in dying does not obligate a patient to proceed, and a patient may pause or stop the process at any time.
Healthcare professionals and organizations may also have their own participation policies under California law.
Patients can ask questions, consider alternatives and change their minds.
The Process
What the process may involve.
The following is a high-level overview. Specific requirements are established by California law and must be followed with the appropriate medical professionals.
Start the conversation
Discuss your wishes and questions with an appropriate healthcare professional.
Eligibility is evaluated
The required medical professionals assess whether the patient meets the criteria established by California law.
Required requests and documentation
The law establishes requirements for patient requests, documentation and medical review.
Informed decision-making
Patients receive information about the medication, alternatives and other end-of-life care options.
The patient remains in control
Moving through the process does not require the patient to ultimately take the medication.
California law and procedures can change. Generation Care can help patients understand current requirements and appropriate next steps.
Understanding All Your Options
Aid in dying is one end-of-life option.
Informed decision-making also means understanding the other forms of care and symptom support available to you.
How We Can Help
Clear guidance, without judgment.
Our experienced clinicians can help eligible patients and their families understand their options, navigate questions and approach end-of-life decisions with clarity and respect.
Learn About Our Aid in Dying SupportHERE WHEN YOU NEED US
Let’s talk about what matters to you.
Whether you’re exploring care for yourself or someone you love, our team is here to listen, answer your questions and help you understand your options.
Talk With Our TeamOr call us 24/7: (805) 496-0044