A seriously ill Tyrolean entrusts her story to the “Krone” and writes her off into a will. What does the doctor who supervised you say about the new assisted suicide regulation, the bureaucracy and the role of the doctor?
“crown”:Doctor, what was it like when your long-term patient confronted you about her concerns?
Doctor: It was anything but easy. I myself have a palliative education that focuses on the holistic treatment of seriously ill people. An incredibly important part of medicine. In this particular case, however, I could understand the patient’s wish. That’s why it was important to me that she had a trusted person by her side, we kept in touch until the end. But I also worried about how I would feel about it.
Do you understand when colleagues refuse to be accompanied?
I understand that. As a doctor you are socialized differently. The ultimate goal is to preserve life. It’s hard for you to get past this print. But I think the claim of saving lives at any cost is false.
You are one of the few doctors in Austria who has accompanied a person on their way to a decree. Is the state’s scheme appropriate?
It is clear that strict guidelines are needed to prevent abuse. What is important and correct is that the person should be able to make decisions, i.e. have a clear mind. She must be able to make decisions independently and freely. This is the essence of the determination.
But you also see shortcomings in the current framework.
Yes, when it comes to bureaucratic support. It cannot be that those affected are left all alone and get through it only with great difficulty. There is a need for a point of contact that establishes contacts and mediates with doctors and civil-law notaries. This position could, for example, be anchored in patient advocacy.
And what support is needed for medical professionals?
One thing is clear: no pressure should be put on doctors. It should also be a free choice for them. That’s how it’s arranged. There’s a secret list of open-minded doctors. Secret because colleagues are often attacked. Unfortunately, the subject is still taboo in professional circles. However, at the latest with the new legal regulation, it is necessary to deal with it during training. A dignified death is part of a dignified life.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
