For Vermont Patients

How Do I Access a Prescription?

Eligibility requirements

To be eligible for medical aid in dying under Vermont’s law, a person must be:

• An adult
• Terminally ill
• Given a prognosis of six months or less to live
• Mentally capable of making their own healthcare decisions

A person must also be:

• Acting voluntarily
• Making an informed decision that includes being given information about all other end-of-life options
• Informed that they may choose to obtain the aid-in-dying prescription but not take it
• Capable of self-administering and ingesting the aid-in-dying drug

In addition to the requirements listed above, certain steps must be followed in order for a person to qualify for aid-in-dying medication. The average length of time between requesting and receiving a prescription is between 15 days to three months and requires at least two doctor visits. Therefore, it is important for individuals to talk to their doctors early to see whether the doctor is willing to write a prescription. We encourage everyone to begin this conversation now.

Where Can I Learn More?

For Vermont residents:

Vermont Introduction to Medical Aid in Dying

Patient Request for Medication Form

Government sponsored website that shows and compares the ratings of hospice agencies – giving you a snapshot of the quality of care of each hospice

A Patient’s Guide to Personal Advocacy

About Compassion & Choices

Compassion & Choices is the nation’s oldest, largest and most active nonprofit organization committed to improving care and expanding choice for the end of life.