Can a minor refuse life-saving procedures?

Although it is clear that an adult has the ability to either accept or refuse life-sustaining treatment, the law for a minor is uncertain.

A recent situation in the United Kingdom has brought this issue to the public’s attention.

Here are some details from ‘I didn’t want to have any more operations’: Girl, 13, says why she would prefer to die with dignity than have transplant, DailyMail.co.uk, Nov. 11, 2008:

• Hannah Jones was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia at age 5.
• Hannah developed a hole in her heart because of the drugs she received to combat the leukemia.
• Hannah has received many treatments over the past eight years including a special pacemaker that required a seven-month hospital stay.
• Doctors determined that a heart transplant would be her best option even though she could die during surgery or, even if she survived, the leukemia could return.
• Accordingly, Hannah decided to forego the transplant.
• However, under English law a minor does not have the right to refuse treatment.
• Doctors brought suit to force her to have the heart transplant.
• Recently, chief executive Chris Bull of Herefordshire Primary Care abandoned the court proceedings.