California End of Life Option Act (EOLOA)
Medical Aid in Dying
When the End of Life Option Act was signed by Governor Jerry Brown, and went into effect on June 9, 2016, it laid a solid foundation for all Californians to be supported in their end of life wishes. It represents a major step forward in the nationwide effort to change state laws to better reflect humane values. The new law was patterned after the country’s first ground-breaking law, Oregon’s Death with Dignity Act, in effect since 1997. With the new law, California became the 7th and the largest state in the country to allow licensed physicians to legally prescribe a lethal dose of medication to decisionally-capable, terminally ill patients, 18 years or older, thoughtfully requesting medical aid-in-dying.
Eligibility Requirements to Access the Law:
- Must be 18 years or older.
- Must be of sound mind and exhibit appropriate decision-making capabilities to the attending physician.
- Must be able to self-ingest the medication either orally or by pushing through an NG tube.
- Must be diagnosed with a terminal disease, with a life expectancy of six months or less, by two physicians.

Are you overwhelmed?
If all of this seems overwhelming, know that you are not alone. Many people find accessing the law difficult. That’s why we are here to help. Our highly trained volunteers will help you and your family walk through the process from beginning to end. We can explain all legal end-of-life options available in California including the End of Life Option Act.
For specific information…
For Patients
If you have read the information on accessing the End of Life Option Act and all of this seems overwhelming, know that you are not alone. Many people find accessing the law difficult. That’s why we are here… LEARN MORE
For Attending
Physicians
If you are a physician who is interested in learning more about how to support your patients who request medical-aid-in-dying, you have come to the right place. We offer you our … LEARN MORE
For Consulting Physicians
The Role of the Consulting Physician According to the End of Life Option Act, “consulting physician” means a physician who is independent from the attending physician and … LEARN MORE
The California Law
When the End of Life Option Act (EOLOA) was signed by California Governor Jerry Brown on October 5, 2015 and went into effect on June 9, 2016, it laid a solid foundation for all Californians to be supported … LEARN MORE
Request Volunteer Support
If you have questions about the law, or if you think you might be eligible, please contact one of our voluteers to assist you further.