As a doctor, I think we are prepared for our own death (not so much for illness though). Especially during the last days or months we know exactly what's happening. I agree that the less-care-but-less-side-effects way is chosen much more often by doctors for themselves and their close relatives (I personally administered to my mother opioid to accelerate death due to terminal cancer a couple of days before the expected end that would be tortuous).
For my end stage patients I advise full palliative analgesic and sedative therapy but usually against futile chemos and intubations. There is a discussion where ICU doctors and oncologists have to take part.
I don't know, that's why I'm asking! If I'm in that situation I hope this option is available to me, and want to know what to ask for.
If the answer is that it's illegal I'd know I can't ask this directly/explicitly (but maybe there's a "secret handshake" way of asking for it). If it is I'd know I can. I wish no harm to OP.
IANAD but have paid close attention to this for the same reasons. When my time comes I plan to let them know I'm in serious pain and prefer pain relief to life extension (though maybe in a more subtle way). I expect most will understand that.
The patient must be hospitalised and the administration is justified as an analgesic, sedative and for heart failure when pressure, pulse and breath start to reduce. I believe any doctor whould agree after discussion with the relatives. The problem is the doctors rarely bring it to surface and the people don't know to demand it.
For my end stage patients I advise full palliative analgesic and sedative therapy but usually against futile chemos and intubations. There is a discussion where ICU doctors and oncologists have to take part.