Non-treatment decisions on grounds of ‘medical futility’ and definition of ‘quality of life’: interviews with 14 Dutch neonatologists

Abstract

This essay opens with background information about the concept of “medical futility” and the regulation of nontreatment decisions in Dutch neonatology. The regulations include a list of criteria for predicting the baby’s future quality of life. The second part presents the findings from interviews with fourteen Dutch neonatologists on the manner in which they apply the criteria in their practice.