Maastricht hospital can stop treating terminally ill 3-year-old, court rules
Maastricht UMC+ may stop medical treatment for a critically ill 3-year-old girl despite her parents’ objections, a Dutch court has ruled. The child, who has a rare genetic disease, has been on artificial ventilation since late February.
Physicians at the hospital say the girl is suffering unbearably with no hope of recovery, RTL reported. They consider further treatment medically futile and have decided to end life-sustaining care. The parents challenged the decision in court.
The family said ending treatment while the child’s heart is still beating conflicts with their religious beliefs. Unlike the physicians and specialists who gave second opinions, the parents reportedly still believe their daughter might recover, RTL reported.
The court acknowledged the parents’ pain and distress, calling it “deeply understandable.” However, it stated that the authority to decide on continued treatment lies with the doctors.
“Multiple statements from physicians and nursing staff indicate that the girl is suffering severely,” the court concluded, affirming the hospital's decision.
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