On 28 May 2025, the anniversary of the introduction of Belgium’s euthanasia law, a new practical guide has been launched: Guidance for Supporting a Euthanasia Process: A Tool for Doctors and Other Care Providers in Supporting Patients and Their Loved Ones, based on real-world care needs. This guidance offers concrete tools for healthcare professionals to support patients and families throughout the entire euthanasia process — from the initial request to aftercare following the procedure.
“This guidance was developed by our End-of-Life Care Research Group (VUB & Ghent University),” explain Professor Kenneth Chambaere and Dr Romy Van Rickstal. “It goes beyond the existing guidelines, which are often focused on legal and technical aspects, and instead offers practical support for person-centred, compassionate, and multidisciplinary care. It explicitly addresses issues such as continuity of care, clear communication, spiritual support, and how to involve children in the process.”
The guide provides healthcare professionals with recommendations on:
- The importance of clear, accessible communication with both patients and their loved ones about the process and legal criteria, including the fact that euthanasia is not an enforceable right.
- The need for both joint and separate conversations with patients and their families to detect any signs of pressure or coercion, while safeguarding patient autonomy.
- Practical guidance for carrying out the procedure — such as tips on scheduling, preparing the environment, and supporting farewell rituals.
- Involving children in an age-appropriate way, using trusted intermediaries and tailored aftercare.
- The importance of palliative care expertise and multidisciplinary collaboration from the outset.
- Self-care for doctors and team members, recognising the emotional toll and the value of reflective practices such as debriefings.
The guidance is the result of an intensive co-creative process involving professionals and experts from a wide range of disciplines. It draws on both scientific research and practical experience. From 28 May, the document will be available in both Dutch and French via www.euthanasieleidraad.be.
“This guidance aims to provide a sense of direction for healthcare professionals as they navigate the often emotionally charged, ethically complex, and relationally delicate aspects of euthanasia,” Professor Chambaere concludes. “It is intended to be a living document that evolves with new insights and the changing needs of the field.”