Euthanasia: attitudes and practices of medical practitioners

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Palliative Care
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• Physician-assisted suicide (PAS) and active voluntary euthanasia (AVE) are subjects of ongoing ethical and legal debate globally.
• Understanding healthcare professionals' perspectives is crucial for informed policy development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the attitudes and practices of medical practitioners regarding AVE and PAS.
• To investigate the prevalence of requests for and compliance with AVE and PAS in New South Wales (NSW) and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

Main Methods:

• A random sample of 2000 medical practitioners from NSW (including ACT) was surveyed via post.
• The survey aimed to record doctors' engagement with and views on end-of-life practices.

Main Results:

• Nearly half of surveyed practitioners reported being asked to perform euthanasia, with 28% complying.
• Approximately 7% of those asked to assist with suicide had complied.
• A majority of respondents supported legislative changes concerning euthanasia.

Conclusions:

• A notable proportion of medical practitioners in NSW and ACT are involved in or supportive of AVE and PAS.
• The findings suggest a need to review current legislation governing these end-of-life practices.
• High levels of practice and support indicate a potential gap between law and medical professional behavior.