Does Hospice Allow Physician-Assisted Dying?

March 19, 2024

A few states have "Death with Dignity” laws on the books. As of 2019, physician-assisted dying (PAD) is allowed in Colorado, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, New Jersey, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington. It has also been mandated by a court ruling in Montana and California.


Individuals must have a terminal illness and prognosis of less than 6 months to live. In states where PAD is legal, terminally ill adult state residents can voluntarily request and receive a prescription medication so they can die in a peaceful, humane manner in a place and time of their choosing.


A person must be a legal state resident to qualify for this assistance. A person cannot simply go to one of these states and request physician-assisted dying.


A person does NOT have to be in Hospice care, or in any other kind of care institution like a hospital or nursing home, to exercise their right to seek physician-assisted dying.


Not all physicians, even in states where it is allowed, are willing to empower a person to make this choice. However, in these states there are organizations that will help a person who qualifies under the law to find a compassionate physician to help them carry out their wishes.


Hospice provides a range of end-of-life care options, so even in those states that allow physician-assisted dying, Hospice patients have a range of choices. Hospice caregivers from the physician-assisted dying states report that it is not unusual for a patient to change their mind about exercising this right either before or after entering Hospice care. Even patients with a terminal illness who have given up on life sometimes find a reason to want to continue to live as long as possible.


In those states that allow "Death with Dignity”, this choice can be made legally and with assistance, and without any legal consequences for those who participate.



Nothing in life is more of a personal choice than the decision to live every day that is given to us. Or to decide that the time has come for one’s life to end.

Want to Ask a Question?

Navigating Changes in Burial Plans: What to Do When You No Longer Need a Funeral Plot

March 25, 2024
Life's journey is marked by unexpected twists and turns, and with them, our plans and priorities can change. One such plan that often undergoes revision is the choice of a final resting place. Many individuals purchase cemetery plots with the best intentions, but circumstances can evolve, leading to a situation where that plot is no longer needed. Whether it's a shift in burial preferences, relocation, or changes in family dynamics, knowing what steps to take in such a scenario is crucial. In this article, we will explore the compassionate and practical considerations surrounding what to do if you find yourself no longer in need of a cemetery plot you've previously acquired.

Crafting a Unique Farewell: Personalizing Funeral Services

March 25, 2024
Losing a loved one is undoubtedly one of life's most challenging experiences. During such a time, the funeral service plays a significant role in helping families cope with their grief and say their final goodbyes. Personalizing a funeral service allows families to create a meaningful and memorable event that reflects the unique personality and life of the deceased.

Sending Flowers to a Funeral: A Thoughtful Gesture of Comfort

March 25, 2024
When it comes to expressing condolences and offering comfort to grieving families, few gestures are as universally understood and appreciated as sending flowers to a funeral. In this article, we will offer expert advice and guidance on how to select and send the perfect flowers to a funeral. Whether you're a family member, friend, or colleague, this guide will help you express your sympathy and support in a meaningful way.

Sharing Sympathy on Social Media: Etiquette and Guidelines

March 25, 2024
In our ever-evolving digital world, the way we communicate has transformed drastically. This includes how we offer condolences when someone loses a loved one. Social media platforms have become a common space for expressing sympathy and offering support during times of grief. However, it's essential to do so with care and respect. In this article, we'll delve into the etiquette of sharing condolences on social media.

Guiding Light: Small Daily Steps for Navigating Grief and Loss

March 25, 2024
Coping with the loss of a loved one is one of the most challenging and painful experiences a person can endure. Dealing with the death of a family member or close friend can be overwhelming, and the journey of healing is deeply personal. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to navigating grief, there are small daily steps that can help you cope and gradually find your way towards healing. This article will provide guidance on these daily steps, drawing upon our staff's expertise in funeral services, grief counseling, and compassion for those who are grieving.

Choosing the Right Guests: Who Should Be Invited to a Funeral?

March 25, 2024
The process of planning a funeral is undoubtedly challenging, as it involves not only making arrangements for the deceased but also deciding who should attend the service. The guest list is a crucial aspect of any funeral, as it plays a significant role in ensuring that the event is meaningful and provides support to grieving friends and family members.

Selecting the Perfect Headstone: A Guide to Honoring Your Loved One

March 25, 2024
In the wake of a loved one's passing, the process of saying goodbye can be one of the most challenging experiences in life. Besides the grief of losing someone near and dear, loved ones are faced with planning a funeral and burial. Among the many decisions that need to be made, choosing the right headstone is a deeply personal and significant choice.

Taking a Child to a Funeral: Considerations and Insights

March 25, 2024
In the solemn and emotionally charged context of a funeral, the question of whether it's a good idea to bring a child is one that many families grapple with. Taking a child to a funeral can teach them about empathy and the importance of supporting loved ones during difficult times, fostering emotional growth and understanding that will serve them throughout life. It also allows them to find closure after the passing of someone close. On the other hand, it may be advisable to avoid taking a child to a funeral if they are too young to understand death or mourn appropriately or if it risks causing distress.

The Significance of Funerals: Honoring Deceased Loved Ones

March 25, 2024
Funerals serve to honor the deceased, provide closure, and support grieving individuals. They offer a structured space for emotional expression, memory-sharing, and cultural or religious traditions. Funerals have deep historical roots, originating in ancient civilizations like Egypt and Rome. These rituals evolved to honor and remember the deceased, often with religious or cultural significance. Over centuries, funeral customs adapted, reflecting changing beliefs and attitudes toward death, but the core purpose of paying tribute endures.

Embracing Eternal Bonds: The Healing Power of Memorial Jewelry

March 25, 2024
In the realm of funeral and memorial services, one of the most poignant and personal ways to remember a departed loved one is through memorial jewelry. More than just an accessory, memorial jewelry is a tangible connection to the past and a source of comfort in the present. Join us as we delve into the myriad benefits of memorial jewelry, a cherished companion on the path of remembrance and healing.
More Posts