[Interdisciplinary discussion about euthanasia--viewpoint of the clinical physicians]

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Palliative Medicine
• Oncology

Context:

• Over 80% of deaths occur in hospitals, necessitating professional care for dying patients.
• Current medical care for terminally ill patients is frequently insufficient, impacting physical, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being.
• The Netherlands and Switzerland show increasing rates of euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide, particularly among cancer patients.

Purpose:

• To highlight the critical need for comprehensive palliative care for terminally ill patients.
• To examine the relationship between palliative care availability and the rise in euthanasia and assisted suicide.
• To advocate for enhanced education and practice in palliative medicine.

Summary:

• Palliative care integrates medical, psychological, social, and spiritual support for the dying. While WHO guidelines offer pain management, individualized palliative care is essential for symptom control.
• Legalization of euthanasia may decrease interest and research in palliative care, as observed in the Netherlands with a significant rise in euthanasia and assisted suicide rates.
• Insufficient palliative care competence, especially in oncology, leads patients to view euthanasia and assisted suicide as the only options, underscoring the need for improved end-of-life care education.

Impact:

• Enhancing palliative medicine education is crucial for improving the quality of care for dying patients.
• Addressing the multifaceted needs of the terminally ill can reduce reliance on euthanasia and assisted suicide.
• Promoting robust palliative care practices ensures better symptom management and overall well-being for patients nearing the end of life.