Death is a topic that many people avoid discussing until it is right in front of them. The healthcare system in the United States has become focused on overmedicalization, according to Rebecca Blackwell. She explains that in the past, death was something that families prepared for and took place at home. However, with the rise of hospitals in the 1960s and 1970s, more patients began to die in medical settings, leading to concerns about loss of autonomy for some individuals.
Assisted death, also known as euthanasia or assisted suicide, has become a topic of discussion globally. Recently, the United Kingdom proposed a bill to legalize assisted death for terminal patients, sparking conversations about ethics and safeguards. Clinicians and policymakers are worried about the implications of legalizing assisted death, especially for vulnerable populations such as those with disabilities or severe mental health disorders.
In Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Spain, and Switzerland, medically assisted dying is legal. Portugal will decriminalize euthanasia in 2023, and France has proposed an “aid in dying” bill. In the United States, medical aid in dying is authorized in 10 states and the District of Columbia. Canada also allows medical assistance in dying, with strict eligibility criteria.
Eligibility for assisted death typically requires patients to be over 18, consult with clinical care teams, and make voluntary requests with a sound mind. Patients have the right to change their minds at any point, even after receiving a prescription for assisted death. Across countries where assisted death is legal, cancer is the most common diagnosis among patients who choose this option.
In Canada, there are concerns about the broadening scope of medical aid in dying, with worries that vulnerable populations could be taken advantage of. However, data shows that the majority of patients seeking assisted death come from privileged populations, raising questions about access and equity in healthcare services.
Physician-assisted dying remains a contentious issue that requires open dialogues between healthcare providers, legislators, patients, and families. It is crucial to address concerns about vulnerable populations while ensuring that individuals have the autonomy to make end-of-life decisions. As discussions around assisted death continue, it is essential to consider the ethical implications and safeguards in place to protect those who may choose this option.