EUTHANASIA–BUT WHEN?

Euthanasia–the painless killing of a patient  suffering from an incurable disease, or in an irreversible coma or in insufferable pain ,by a physician. The definition is easy–the application not so.In most physical and medical situations the doctor can tell the state of the patient and whether it is a condition that lends itself to  doctor assisted death. Human nature, being what it is, I do not have complete confidence in the relationships that any mortally ill patient has with his wife, partner, children, business associates or friends. It is completely within the realm of reason that a person may be euthanized for the benefit of  people who are in any way associated with the victim. And yes, in this instance I would call the patient a victim. When one realizes the number of murders that take place in all societies when it is  AGAINST THE LAW to kill, I would hesitate to have a system in place where killing is legal. It is absolutely crucial to have a law in place which tries to make the system, as much as possible, favour the patient`s wishes.

Safeguards that I propose 1. Two medical doctors not involved in the case and brought to the case, and

paid by the health plan should concur in the procedure. 2.The patient must be aware and willing to be euthanized and be acceptable to the procedure followed by the physician . 3. If the patient is not mentally able to allow the procedure to continue it should not take place unless associates can show a letter authorizing the procedure, written at least a month before the event happening, and witnessed by two people who have no relationship to the patient.4. The patient must be in extreme discomfort for at least a month prior to the procedure taking place.

The above are in place for physical illnesses. But what should be done about depression? Most people throughout life go through periods of depression which can leave one so unhappy with life that death is preferred. In this case I suggest two separate  psychiatrists spend a minimum of twenty five hours each trying to get  the patient on the road to mental recovery. Only then can the euthanasia take place after following the procedures for the physically ill patients.

There must be palliative care units in every hospital as a matter of principle.

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