Physician-assisted dying: review of issues and roles for health psychologists

Health Psychol. 2001 Jul;20(4):302-10. doi: 10.1037//0278-6133.20.4.302.

Abstract

The authors review the recent empirical and theoretical literature on physician-assisted dying (PAD) since implementation of the Oregon Death With Dignity Act (ODDA) in 1997. The authors provide a brief overview of end-of-life practices; consider ethical and practical issues regarding PAD; outline governments' acts and health care organizations' current codified principles regarding PAD, including the American Psychological Association's goal to increase the visibility of psychology in end-of-life issues; examine recent data pertinent to ODDA implementation and psychologists' attitudes regarding PAD; and outline potential roles for health psychologists responding to requests for PAD and implementing PAD (where it is legal). Health psychologists can assume at least 4 roles regarding PAD: (a) policy advocates, (b) educators, (c) practitioners, and (d) researchers.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ethics, Medical
  • Euthanasia*
  • Humans
  • Palliative Care
  • Physician's Role*
  • Suicide, Assisted*