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Treatment-resistant depression and physician-assisted death
Journal of Medical Ethics
|September 25, 2015
Summary
Physician-assisted death for treatment-resistant depression is ethically complex. This commentary argues against its inclusion, citing physician integrity and the potential for future interventions to improve patient quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Medical Ethics
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Scholarly debate exists regarding physician-assisted death (PAD) for patients with treatment-resistant depression.
- A recent article proposed legalizing PAD for this patient group.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the ethical implications of PAD for treatment-resistant depression.
- To argue against the inclusion of these patients in legal PAD options.
Main Methods:
- Commentary and ethical analysis.
- Review of existing arguments on PAD and professional integrity.
Main Results:
- The argument for PAD in treatment-resistant depression overlooks the crucial aspect of physician professional integrity.
- Uncertainty remains regarding the potential for further interventions to enhance patient quality of life and restore the will to live.
Conclusions:
- It is inappropriate to offer physician-assisted death to patients diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression.
- Physician integrity and the potential for therapeutic advancements necessitate a cautious approach.