We may claim the right-to-die in any of three forms:
(1) withdrawing or withholding
medical
treatments and life-supports,
(2) voluntary death—chosen rationally
by the patient, or
(3) merciful death—chosen rationally
by proxies for the patient.
However, each of these life-ending decisions is open to abuse:
(1) premature withdrawal of
life-supports,
(2) irrational suicide and manipulated
or coerced death, or
(3) mercy killing.
This small book
proposes
ten practical safeguards
to prevent abuse of the right-to-die
while permitting appropriate and
reasonable
decisions for death.
Basically the safeguards gather the
considered opinions of the candidate,
the doctors, the family, & any
ethical
consultants who might be involved,
including members of the clergy.
Also there should be appropriate
waiting
periods, full reporting,
& the possibility of prosecution
for those who cause premature death.
Here are the
ten specific
safeguards:
1. Living Will and/or other Request
for Death from the Candidate.
2. Psychological Consultant
Certifies that the Candidate is Competent to Decide.
3. Doctor's Summary of Condition and Prognosis.
4. Independent Doctor Confirms the Condition and Prognosis.
5. Significant Others Agree with the Life-Ending Decision.
6. Member of the Clergy Approves the Life-Ending Decision.
7. Ethics Committee Reviews the Life-Ending Decision.
8. Criminal and Civil Penalties for Causing Premature Death.
9. Waiting Periods Before Death is Permitted.
10. Complete Reporting of all Material Facts.