Alternatives for Physician Assisted Suicide

Here we'll cover the other ways a person can choose to go out "on their own terms." These are well-known alternatives, but to keep things fair and educational, let's have a look.

For those that aren't interested in physician-assisted suicide, but are looking for something outside of continuing treatment, here are some suggestions to consider and bring up with their doctor moving forward.

Refusing Treatment

All adults have the right to refuse treatment, even if that treatment is intended to directly save their life, so long as they are able to make that decision on their own. An example would be someone undergoing chemotherapy treatment and deciding the discomfort is not worth the extra time of life. Nobody can tell them otherwise if they are competent. An example of someone unable to refuse treatment is a person suffering psychosis; doctors state this is unacceptable due to the person not having a clear grasp on their tangible reality. This may be the simplest alternative way.

"Do Not Attempt Resuscitation"

This is a form a patient can file in their medical records proclaiming they do not wish to receive CPR during an emergency. Realistically, only 1 in 5 people survive after CPR in hospitals, and this comes with its own risks such as internal organ damage, fractured ribs, and possible brain injuries leading to brain damage. Because of the possible consequences and low survival rate, many terminal patients opt to sign the DNAR form. I think this can be seen as a passive form of euthanasia; no care can be offered when emergencies ensue.

Hospice or Palliative Care

This is simply making the patient comfortable during the last stages of their lives. Feeding tubes are removed, sedatives are used, and ventilators are typically discontinued. This is different from refusing treatment, as many doctors approach the patient or the patient's loved ones first with the suggestion to discontinue treatment.