Quando il «bene della vita» è la morte, una buona morte

PISU, ALESSANDRA

2017-01-01

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Abstract

Starting from the case Piludu, the essay explores people’s right of self-determination, which is covered by the constitution, in relation to public health services. As recognised by the innovative court order of the Cagliari Tribunal, this right – together with the principle of informed consent – implies that the infirm can refuse, and therefore discontinue, ongoing health treatments, including those life support, such as artificial breathing, feeding and hydration. In light of relevant jurisprudence, the paper analyses the bill on ‘Rules related to informed consent and premature treatment provisions’, making a first assessment of the proposals currently being discussed by the Italian Parliament.