Examining physician-assisted deaths in Oregon and Washington

Oregon and Washington were the first two states to approve medical aid in dying in 1994 and 2008, respectively. Six more states and D.C. now allow the practice. A new study takes a deeper look into how the practice has been accessed in Oregon and Washington. Here’s more: 

• Overall trends: Nearly 2,600 people died from ingesting lethal medication in Oregon and Washington through 2017. The majority who died were male, white, and older than 65. 
• Illnesses: More than three-quarters of those who received injections had cancer. Some 10% had a neurological illness. 
• Reasons for seeking medical aid in dying: The vast majority of people cited a loss of autonomy and impaired quality of life for choosing physician assistance in dying. More than two-thirds also cited a loss of dignity.