Els Borst

Else "Els" Borst-Eilers (22 March 1932 – 10 February 2014) was a prominent Dutch politician and physician. She was a member of the Democrats 66 (D66) party and served as the Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport from 1994 to 2002. Borst was known for her significant contributions to healthcare policy in the Netherlands, including the legalization of euthanasia.

Early Life and Education

Els Borst was born in Amsterdam, Netherlands. She pursued her medical studies at the University of Amsterdam, where she graduated with a degree in medicine. Borst further specialized in pediatric medicine and later obtained a PhD in medical science.

Career

Medical Career

Before entering politics, Borst had a distinguished career in medicine. She worked as a pediatrician and later held various administrative positions in the healthcare sector. Her medical background provided her with a strong foundation for her later work in health policy.

Political Career

Borst joined the Democrats 66 party and was appointed as the Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport in the cabinet of Prime Minister Wim Kok. During her tenure from 1994 to 2002, she was instrumental in reforming the Dutch healthcare system.

Legalization of Euthanasia

One of Borst's most notable achievements was her role in the legalization of euthanasia in the Netherlands. She advocated for the "Termination of Life on Request and Assisted Suicide (Review Procedures) Act," which was passed in 2001, making the Netherlands the first country to legalize euthanasia under strict conditions.

Other Contributions

Borst also worked on improving the efficiency and accessibility of healthcare services. She was involved in the introduction of the Health Insurance Act, which aimed to provide universal health coverage.

Honors and Recognition

Els Borst was awarded the Order of the Netherlands Lion, one of the highest civilian honors in the Netherlands, in recognition of her services to the country.

Death

Els Borst passed away on 10 February 2014 in Bilthoven, Netherlands. Her death was initially considered accidental, but later investigations revealed it to be a homicide.

Legacy

Borst is remembered for her compassionate approach to healthcare and her pioneering work in the field of medical ethics. Her efforts have had a lasting impact on Dutch society and healthcare policy.

Also see

• Democrats 66
• Euthanasia in the Netherlands
• Health Insurance Act (Netherlands)
• Order of the Netherlands Lion