The proposed bill, titled the "Lila Manfield Sapinsley Compassionate Care Act," aims to establish a legal framework that allows terminally ill patients in Rhode Island to request and self-administer medication to hasten their death. The bill outlines specific requirements for physicians, including the necessity of a bona fide physician-patient relationship, thorough documentation of the patient's requests, and confirmation of the patient's capability to make informed decisions.

Physicians will not face civil or criminal liability for prescribing such medication, provided they adhere to the outlined procedures, which include multiple requests from the patient, consultations with other medical professionals, and ensuring the patient is informed of all feasible end-of-life services. The act also protects healthcare providers from disciplinary actions for refusing to participate in the process and ensures that life insurance benefits cannot be denied based on actions taken under this act.

Additionally, the legislation clarifies that it does not authorize euthanasia or assisted suicide and mandates the safe disposal of any unused medications prescribed under its provisions. The act is set to take effect upon passage, providing a structured approach to end-of-life care for patients facing terminal conditions.