Guidance Through California’s End of Life Option Act
CALIFORNIA’S END OF LIFE OPTION ACT
Medical Aid in Dying evaluations and ongoing physician care for eligible California patients.
Patients considering Medical Aid in Dying deserve clear information, honest conversations, and a physician who will guide them through each step of the process.
As a board-certified Hospice & Palliative Care physician, Dr. Demi Wolford works directly with eligible California patients throughout the End of Life Option Act process, answering questions, coordinating care, and providing timely guidance from the first consultation through every stage of the process.
Direct Physician Care Throughout the Process
DR. DEMI WOLFORD
Whether you are exploring Medical Aid in Dying for the first time or are ready to begin the process, Dr. Wolford provides physician support, timely communication, and telemedicine care for eligible patients throughout California.
Compassionate Care Through Every Step
THE PROCESS
Start with a Conversation
Meet with Dr. Wolford to discuss your diagnosis, answer questions, and better understand your options.
Eligibility & Care Planning
Review eligibility requirements and receive clear information about the next steps based on your individual circumstances.
Personalized Support
From care coordination to physician services, Dr. Wolford remains available to support patients and families throughout the process.
WHAT TO EXPECT
You’re Not Navigating This Alone
Medical Aid in Dying can involve multiple conversations, legal requirements, and coordination with other members of your healthcare team such as your hospice or other medical providers.
Dr. Wolford helps patients understand each step, coordinates care when needed, and remains directly involved throughout the process.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Your Questions, Answered
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California's End of Life Option Act provides a legal option for certain terminally ill adults who wish to explore Medical Aid in Dying. The process includes specific eligibility requirements and safeguards to ensure that decisions are informed, voluntary, and consistent with the patient's wishes.
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To be eligible for Medical Aid in Dying under California's End of Life Option Act, a person must:
• Be 18 years of age or older
• Be a resident of California
• Have a terminal illness with a prognosis of six months or less, as determined by two physicians
• Have the capacity to make medical decisions and provide informed consent
• Be able to self-administer the prescribed medicationEligibility is determined through a comprehensive medical evaluation and review of the requirements established by California law.
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Dr. Wolford provides telemedicine consultations for eligible patients throughout California.
Virtual appointments allow patients and families to receive guidance, discuss eligibility, and navigate the process from the comfort of home whenever appropriate.
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Every patient's situation is unique. For patients experiencing a rapidly changing condition, timely communication and coordination can be especially important.
Dr. Wolford works closely with patients and families to help move the process forward as efficiently as medically and legally appropriate.
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Hospice enrollment is not required for an initial consultation or eligibility evaluation. However, because hospice can provide important medical, emotional, and practical support, Dr. Wolford strongly encourages hospice involvement and generally requires hospice enrollment before prescribing aid-in-dying medication.
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Yes. Family members, caregivers, and loved ones are often an important part of the conversation surrounding Medical Aid in Dying. Patients are welcome to include those they wish to have involved in discussions, planning, and decision-making throughout the process.
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You do not need to have made a decision before scheduling a consultation. An initial consultation provides an opportunity to ask questions, learn about California's End of Life Option Act, and discuss whether Medical Aid in Dying may be an option for you.
There is no obligation to move forward. Many people find value simply in having clear information, understanding the process, and speaking with a physician experienced in end-of-life care.
Have Questions? Let's Start with a Conversation.
Whether you are exploring Medical Aid in Dying for yourself, supporting a loved one, or making a professional referral, Dr. Wolford is available to help you understand your options and determine the best path forward.