Where We Stand
Section: Hospice / End of Life Care / Death & Dying
Subsection: Death with Dignity

Death with Dignity

OMA changes its official position on the law from “opposed” to “neutral.”
Adopted by the Board of Trustees, October 2017.

OMA has historically opposed enactment of all legislation intending to change or codify Oregon common law on the care of dying patients, and supports the position that "death with dignity" is a part of the doctor-patient relationship.
Adopted at the annual House of Delegates, 1977.
Reaffirmed at the annual House of Delegates, 2011.


For members with legal concerns on this matter, OMA recommends that physicians calling the association for advice be furnished a copy of ORS 97.050 - 97.090, and be advised that they seek legal counsel from their own attorneys or ask their patients to consult an attorney prior to executing the necessary document.
Adopted at the interim House of Delegates, 1977.
Reaffirmed at the annual House of Delegates, 2011.


OMA supports the concept of hospice care, either physician directed or by consultation, including pain and symptom control, as another option for care for cancer patients and their families in our "freedom of choice" medical care system.
Adopted at the interim House of Delegates, 1981.
Reaffirmed at the annual House of Delegates, 2011.


OMA adopted a set of guidelines for the use of physicians in the withdrawal of life-sustaining procedures from comatose patients. A copy of this document is available in OMA offices upon request of member physicians.
See Appendix G  
Adopted at the annual House of Delegates, 1984.
Revised at the annual House of Delegates, 2011.


OMA educates its members as to the benefits of hospice for patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families; and supports efforts in local communities to promote public awareness of hospice and of hospice services by patients during their final days.
Adopted at the interim House of Delegates, 1994.
Reaffirmed at the annual House of Delegates, 2011.

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