Bill H.75, introduced by Representative Cordes, seeks to enhance the involvement of various health care professionals in Vermont's end-of-life patient choice laws. The legislation expands the definition of "clinician" to include naturopathic physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, allowing them to participate in the processes related to do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders and clinician orders for life-sustaining treatment (COLST). The bill modifies existing legal language by replacing "physician" with "clinician," thereby broadening the scope of who can make decisions regarding end-of-life care. Additionally, it grants naturopathic physicians the authority to sign and issue DNR orders and COLST, thereby enhancing their role in patient care.

The bill also outlines specific requirements for issuing DNR and COLST orders, including the necessity for a clinician's signature and the inclusion of relevant parties providing informed consent. It mandates that DNR orders be documented in the patient's medical record and provides guidelines for honoring these orders. Importantly, the bill clarifies that health care providers are not required to participate in the provision of lethal medication and are protected from liability when acting in good faith. Furthermore, it ensures that DNR/COLST orders executed before July 1, 2011, remain valid if they meet prior statutory requirements and allows for the recognition of out-of-state DNR orders. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 18-113, 18-9708