Riverside County Superior Court Judge Daniel A. Ottolia made the ruling Friday. He said the law will remain in effect for now, though he agreed to allow physicians to pursue their lawsuit claiming the law lacks safeguards to protect against abuse, the Associated Press reports.
California became the fifth state to allow assisted suicide for terminally ill patients in October. Oregon, Washington, Montana and Vermont also permit physician-assisted suicide.
The California law, which took effect June 9, allows physicians to prescribe medication to end a patient’s life if two physicians agree the patient has only six months left to live and is mentally competent. It is based on a similar law in Oregon, according to the article.
Proponents of the law argue those who are terminally ill could face prolonged, painful deaths if the legislation is suspended; however, opponents claim accelerating death is morally wrong, and that loved ones could coerce patients to end their lives, among other things, the article states.
The Associated Press reports that both sides are scheduled back in court Dec. 5.
More articles on healthcare industry lawsuits:
Police recapture man accused of killing physician at Dallas hospital
12 latest healthcare industry lawsuits, settlements
FBI investigates patient suicide at Long Island VA
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.