Physician participation in capital punishment: a question of professional integrity

The death penalty is legal in 36 states, and physicians are expected to attend and participate in executions. Yet, every major medical and health-related organization opposes physician participation in capital punishment. This article argues that it is unethical for physicians within the role as medical professional to participate in capital punishment, and that such acts erode the foundation of trust at the heart of medical practice. We believe that it is important for professional groups and medical societies to impose sanctions on members who choose to participate in executions.