RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Finnish physicians’ attitudes towards active euthanasia have become more positive over the last 10 years
JF Journal of Medical Ethics
JO J Med Ethics
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Institute of Medical Ethics
SP 353
OP 355
DO 10.1136/medethics-2014-102459
VO 41
IS 4
A1 Pekka Louhiala
A1 Heta Enkovaara
A1 Hannu Halila
A1 Heikki Pälve
A1 Jukka Vänskä
YR 2015
UL http://jme.bmj.com/content/41/4/353.abstract
AB Introduction Most physicians are against active euthanasia. Very little is known about the possible changes in the attitudes of physicians. Methods A questionnaire was sent to a random sample of 1003 Finnish physicians of working age. A similar questionnaire had been sent to a random sample of Finnish physicians also in 1993 and 2003. The questionnaire consisted of statements about euthanasia, for which the participants were asked to express their agreement or disagreement on a 5-point Likert scale. Results In general, Finnish physicians’ attitudes towards active euthanasia have become considerably more positive. In 2003, 61% of the respondents were against the legalisation of euthanasia and 29% supported it. In 2013, both groups were of equal size (46%). The willingness to perform active euthanasia has not, however, increased significantly, even in a legalised setting. Conclusions The attitudes of Finnish physicians towards active euthanasia became considerably more positive between 2003 and 2013. There was no significant change, however, in the willingness to practice euthanasia if it became legal.