Euthanasia

One of the more controversial topics in bioethics is the notion of euthanasia or “self-assisted suicide”. It has been talked about in new, films, and throughout the medical world as to the views on either side of the argument. Many believe that it is a form of murder; but others, me included, believe it is the right thing to do if a patient is terminally ill in pain and makes the decision themselves. To me, it is up for the patient to have the ability to choose euthanasia as an alternative to being treated for a terminal illness.

For terminal ill patients, the idea of euthanasia is a way to end the suffering and pain that they would experience during their life-threatening illness. That’s where I believe people get the wrong impression on the topic. People look at this action as someone taking someone’s life, whereas the decision for euthanasia is made by the person themselves or their families. The procedure is only used when the people involved feel it is the best option in given the illness involved.

Another factor that I feel is important with this argument is the money involved. I don’t know how much the procedure of euthanasia is, but I can imagine it is much cheaper and more meaningful to the family to end the pain and suffering of a loved one. If they do not choose this route, the patient will live out their life in hospital or in bed rest needing constant care and medical help, which could lead to a lot of money. Both for the hospital to spend, and more on the families bill. Most people would not want to have to spend the end of their life suffering regardless, so the idea of having euthanasia as an option I feel should be available to terminally ill patients or their families who feel that ending the pain is the right choice.