Can I get euthanasia if I have COVID-19?

Euthanasia is a very complex and strictly regulated medical procedure that in many countries is only permitted under specific circumstances.

Whether someone is eligible for euthanasia due to COVID-19 depends on the legislation in the relevant country and the specific circumstances of the patient. Euthanasia is legal in a few countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Colombia and Canada, but each of these countries has strict criteria that must be met. In other countries, euthanasia is illegal.

In countries where euthanasia is permitted, certain criteria must be met, such as unbearable and hopeless suffering, voluntary and well-considered request, and no reasonable alternatives to the patient's situation.

If COVID-19 leads to complications that cause unbearable and hopeless suffering (for example, long-term organ damage without hope of recovery), euthanasia could be considered under the strict criteria of the law of the country in question.

Source: https://www.health.belgium.be/nl/euthanasie-int

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2023-12-09 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024