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The Groningen Protocol for newborn euthanasia; which way did the slippery slope tilt?
  1. A A Eduard Verhagen
  1. Correspondence to Dr A A Eduard Verhagen, Department of Paediatrics, University Medical Centre Groningen, P.O. Box 30.001, Groningen 9700 RB, The Netherlands; a.a.e.verhagen{at}umcg.nl

Abstract

In The Netherlands, neonatal euthanasia has become a legal option and the Groningen Protocol contains an approach to identify situations in which neonatal euthanasia might be appropriate. In the 5 years following the publication of the protocol, neither the prediction that this would be the first step on a slippery slope, nor the prediction of complete transparency and legal control became true. Instead, we experienced a transformation of the healthcare system after antenatal screening policy became a part of antenatal care. This resulted in increased terminations of pregnancy and less euthanasia.

  • Neonatology
  • Ethics
  • Decision-making
  • End-of-life

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