Debate: Euthanesia
Euthanasia is the termination of a patient’s life by a doctor at the patient’s request. The Netherlands have a unique position on this issue. As of April 1st 2002 euthanasia and physician assisted suicide remains a criminal offence which, however, can be justified if certain requirements of due care are met.One of these requirements is that each case must be reported to a special “Regional euthanasia assessment committee” which reviews all cases in order to determine whether or not a doctor acted carefully and will be exempted from prosecution. In 2006, 1923 cases of euthanasia/physician asisted suicide were reported. All outcomes of the reviews are anonymously published on the committee’s website.This workshop will elaborate on the aspects mentioned below in an interactive fashion, which allows you to ask questions and take part in the discussion. We welcome a panel of experts in this debate, lead by L.C. Aukes. J.Talsma is a GP, J. Dorscheidt is an expert in health law and M. de Bree is specialised in medical ethics. They will present their point of views which are open for debate!
Aspects of the workshop:
• What are the conditions under which euthanasia is allowed?
• How does the government inspect the euthanasia cases?
• With which ethical, legal and medical dilemmas doctors are confronted during end-of-life decisions.
