Practical issues in physician-assisted suicide

Article Abstract:

Many logistical, ethical, and medical issues still need to be resolved before physician-assisted suicides become legal. Doctors should examine their own ethical position on the issue and be able to discuss it openly with their patients. Doctors will require continuing education in analyzing patients' mental health, motives, life expectancy, life quality, and options other than suicide. Ethical issues involving patient confidentiality and reimbursement should be addressed. Acceptable medications in appropriate amounts to facilitate the suicide will need to be determined.

Physician and patient, Physician-patient relations

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Psychiatry and assisted suicide in the United States

Article Abstract:

American physicians may not agree with their Dutch colleagues that physician-assisted suicide should be broadened to include people suffering from severe mental illness. Many mental illnesses can be treated and studies have shown that only 10% to 14% of people who attempt suicide try again in the following 10 years. Thus, suicidal behavior in any patient may be a transient event. A comprehensive mental health evaluation may be able to identify patients whose request for assisted suicide is the result of a treatable disorder.

Editorial, Mentally ill persons, Practice, Behavior, Mentally ill, Psychiatrists

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Attitudes of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and their care givers toward assisted suicide

Article Abstract:

Many patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) would consider taking a lethal dose of medication to hasten their death, according to a survey in Oregon and Washington. ALS causes progressive paralysis, breathing failure, and death. One hundred patients and 91 of their caregivers were asked about assisted suicide. Fifty-six percent of patients would consider taking their own life, and many would request a lethal dose of medication to hold for future use. In 73% of cases, the caregiver agreed with the patient.

Psychological aspects, Beliefs, opinions and attitudes, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Paralytics

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