Table 1.

Due care criteria [2]

The Dutch statutory due care criteria for euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide as stated in the Euthanasia law

1. The patient’s request should be voluntary and well considered

2. The patient’s suffering should be unbearable and without prospect of improvement

3. The patient should be informed about their situation and prospects

4. There are no reasonable alternatives in the patient’s situation

5. At least one other, independent physician, should be consulted and should give a written opinion on whether the due care criteria set out in 1–4 have been fulfilled

6. The termination of patient’s life should be performed with due medical care and attention