Birth and death are not among the choices we make for ourselves. However, the practice of euthanasia, or assisted suicide is often discussed in context of terminally ill patients. As euthanasia offers a pain-free, calm death in stark contrast to the suffering some people go through at the end of their lives, many favor it as a viable option for their loved ones
However, euthanasia comes with a set of ethical dilemmas and raises many questions with no clear answers. The practice stands opposed to many social and religious customs, and is hence not legalized worldover. The Netherlands and Belgium are few of the countries that have legalized the practice.
There are many arguments for and against whether euthanasia should be legalized. In this article, we shall go over several reasons on why assisted suicide, primarily, passive euthanasia is in the best interest of a patient, and should be made legal.
Key Reasons Why Legalizing Euthanasia Supports Compassionate Healthcare
1. Alleviates Prolonged Suffering
The primary reason why someone thinks of euthanasia is because their suffering has become almost unbearable, incurable and irreversible. Although right-to-life proponents might see the practice as a violation of this fundamental right, it is actually the right to a dignified life that one must seek for. A life of unbearable suffering where daily routine or the functioning of the body becomes extremely hampered is better than painless death and escape.
2. Reduces Economic Buren
Terminally ill patients often fetch long hospital bills. At times, medications only increase the suffering of patients while not providing any real benefit. The cost of upkeep of an irrevocably diseased patient might prove to be an economic burden on the family. Euthanasia becomes a viable choice in this case, however, only if further treatment promises no real benefits.
3. Allows for a Life of Dignity
Each of us wishes to live a dignified life. That’s why it becomes extremely demotivating, both for the family and the patient to see themselves in a position where they can no longer keep up with life’s daily activities. Patients may lose control over all their senses, their bladder or rectum and become totally dependent on others. Others might never recover and only remain in a coma. Euthanasia, in this case, becomes
4. It is Medically Sound
Sometimes, letting go is better than trying to hold on. When treatment doesn’t work, euthanasia may be used to bring about painless death. When done rightly, euthanasia may help a patient against side effects of ineffective and harsh treatment.
Final Thoughts
There seems to be no clear answer to the question of legalizing euthanasia for a number of reasons. However, done rightly it not only alleviates suffering but also upholds a patient’s choice and power over their life. As some countries have already legalized it without problems, the road for legislatures in other nations seems clearer than ever.