SB 1222 Summary

• Establishes the "Death with Dignity Act of 2018" allowing terminally ill Arizona residents to request medication to end their life in a humane and dignified manner through a physician-assisted process.

• Requires a qualified patient to have a terminal condition expected to cause death within six months, be a resident for at least 90 days, and make both written and oral requests at least 15 days apart after confirmation by two physicians.

• Mandates attending and consulting physicians verify the patient is competent, acting voluntarily, and has made an informed decision; refers patients for psychiatric counseling if there are concerns about impaired judgment.

• Protects participating physicians, pharmacists, healthcare providers, and facilities from civil, criminal, and professional liability when acting in good faith compliance with the act; prohibits discrimination against those who participate or refuse to participate.

• Voids contractual provisions and insurance conditions that would be affected by a patient's decision to request or rescind end-of-life medication.