The law legalizing euthanasia in Spain is still to be adopted by the senate, but it is considered to be a mere formality. Many doctors and specialists fear that patients will be deprived of palliative care and that euthanasia will be used indiscriminately. In their opinion, the act is unclear and does not protect the rights of patients, especially those who are unconscious or suffer.

To protect patients who are concerned that euthanasia will be used without their consent, the Spanish episcopate encourages the writing of a will of life. For this purpose, it has published a special guide that explains what it is, what its meaning is and how to prepare it to meet the requirements of the law.

The bishops remind that “the euthanasia law states that it cannot be applied if the person has previously signed a document with ordinances, a will, dispositions or other legally recognised documents. It is important that such a document is officially registered. The will of life will allow “to avoid violation of the dignity and freedom of the incapacitated person, which is threatened by the euthanasia act”.

Source: pch24.pl