Streamlining the Process for Removing Life Support from Vegetative Patients

It is difficult to find precise figures, but experts believe there could be as many as 5,000 people in the UK living in a vegetative state, enduring what has been described as a "living death."  And because of advances in medical science, the figures are set to continue to grow.  

Unfortunately, there is evidence families are not routinely being told of all the options open to them.  And even when families have made an informed decision to withdraw treatment and allow their loved-one to die, the court process involved can be beset with lengthy delays.  (BBC News)

Professor Lynn Turner-Stokes is chair of a Royal College of Physicians working party which has been set up to review the issues around the diagnosis and care of vegetative patients.  The Royal College of Physicians' review began in May 2011, and is expected to last at least 18 months.