Physicians' opinions toward legislation defining death and withholding life support

We explored attitudes and practices of Alabama physicians regarding two bills considered in the 1978 State Legislature. One bill defined death to permit the withdrawal of life supports; the other permitted the cessation of active treatment when demanded by terminal patients. Members of the Medical Association of the State of Alabama (MASA) in practices permitting independent action in such cases composed the sample. Twenty percent of 1,300 questionnaires were returned. Most participants idealistically resented legislative interference but realistically were resigned to or welcomed legal clarification of physicians' rights and responsibilities. Respondents encountering demands for life-support withdrawal generally acceded, usually after consultation with family and/or colleagues. Most used analgesics to control pain, if necessary, even to a point compromising respiration. Most considered withdrawal of life support, and most approved of "living wills." Alabama physicians are in the mainstream of American medicine in this area of bioethical concern.