Arguments Against Physician Aid In Dying

Physician aid in dying in those with chronic/terminal illnesses has been a long debated bioethical issue. It’s important to address what exactly physician aid in dying entails when trying to address whether this is an acceptable medical prescription. Ethical principles involved include those of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice. Those who may reason for or against this, may argue differing ethical perspectives on each of these ethical principles. Arguments for this topic may address the idea that the patient has the right to end suffering. Arguments against may address non-maleficence and religion. Physician aid in dying is not murder or “doing harm” but instead a way out for those suffering endlessly. There are many differing

When looking at this issue its important to focus on the ethical principles mentioned above. Autonomy is one of the most important issues that needs to be addressed. Medical, ethical, cultural, religious, and legal opposition to physician aid in dying takes away the autonomy of the patient. Those who are experiencing the side effects of a terminal illness are most in need of autonomy in their medical decisions. In an article in The Washington Post it stated that newest research done on those who seek physician aid in dying are showing motivations different than what most would think. Most would think that this is all about the pain the terminally ill patient experiences. However, the biggest concern of these patients was most commonly feeling a lack of control, they wanted to be autonomous and be capable of making that decision for themselves.4 Beneficence and non-maleficence can be discussed together in this case. Ending suffering of an individual who is fully capable and mentally sound, and giving them their wish to end their struggle would be considered doing good and avoiding harm to those who support physician aid in dying. In an article in The Washington Post the story of Brittany Maynard was discussed. This 29-year-old woman was forced to move to Oregon to fulfill her wish of dying the way she wanted after living with a horrible brain tumor. Her husband stated that “she was afraid that her final few days on this green earth would be ones where she was tortured by the tumor.”4 I am not sure how helping someone like Brittany would ever be considered doing harm or not doing good, as the dose relieved her of misery. Lastly, justice, being fair and equal to all human beings. Being fair and equal goes right back to autonomy, physician aid in dying support and legal backing in all states would allow for all those suffering most to have the power to make a decision that