General legal information — JusticePourtous provides general legal information based on Swiss law in force. This service does not replace personalized legal advice from an attorney.

Practical Guide

Can I refuse medical treatment?

Every adult patient capable of discernment (art. 16 CC) has the absolute right to refuse medical treatment, even vital treatment, by virtue of their right to self-determination and bodily integrity (art. 28 CC). No intervention may be imposed on them — a treatment administered against their will…

⚠️ Content not validated by a human legal professional — currently under revalidation. Verify with a legal assistance office before taking action: an error in timing can result in loss of a right.

Applicable Law Provisions

Critical deadlines

This fact sheet does not yet contain a structured critical deadline.

Keywords

refusal of care autonomy capacity of discernment transfusion end of life personality

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