Spain adopts updated euthanasia manual and new protocol for high‑cost treatments

Spain's Ministry of Health has approved the second edition of the Manual of Good Practices in Euthanasia. The updated guide incorporates organ donation after euthanasia, formalises the role of nurses in the process, extends the possible postponement period for patients to up to six months, and clarifies criteria for suspending or closing cases. Minister of Health criticised the Community of Madrid for voting against the manual, describing the move as an attempt to block a legal right to die.

In parallel, the Inter‑territorial Council of the National Health System (CISNS) approved a nationwide protocol to streamline access to complex, high‑cost treatments. The agreement standardises procedures for 66 therapies—including 12 advanced gene, cell or tissue treatments and 54 drugs costing over €80,000 per patient per year—regardless of the patient’s region of residence. The protocol places financial responsibility on the patient’s home autonomous community, reduces administrative delays, and introduces a digital form with plans for a common technological platform.

Both measures aim to improve equity, reduce bureaucracy and ensure consistent, high‑quality care across Spain’s health system.