American Medical Association retains opposition to assisted suicide

A resolution supporting assisted suicide was proposed during an AMA House of Delegates meeting between this month . If successful, the resolution would have changed the AMA’s stance on assisted suicide from opposed to neutral.

Rejecting the move, the AMA’s current code of conduct continues to state that: “Physician-assisted suicide is fundamentally incompatible with the physician’s role as a healer, would be difficult or impossible to control, and would pose serious societal risks.”

The code of conduct continues that permitting physicians to engage in assisted suicide would “ultimately cause more harm than good”

Founded in 1847, the AMA represents 271,660 physicians and medical students (as of 2022).

SPUC comment

A SPUC spokesperson said: “The legalisation of assisted suicide introduces a profound ethical conflict within the medical profession, which is rightfully dedicated to preserving life and alleviating suffering.

“Implementing assisted suicide means that the role of a physician shifts from healing a patient to ending their life, ultimately eroding the trust between a patient and their doctor.

“Assisted suicide exposes vulnerable people to abuse, coercion and exploitation. In countries where assisted suicide is legalised, the vulnerable such as those facing financial hardships, psychological distress, or pressure from family members, may feel compelled to choose death as a way to alleviate perceived burdens on others. The dangers of assisted suicide are evident and cannot be ignored.”



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