BLOODLETTING & MIRACULOUS CURES

Doctors face tough decisions every day that can significantly impact the lives of others. They are guided by the law, but also by their morals and ethics and hopefully, compassion for other human beings. Theirs is not an easy job.

 

As Vincent Lam points out in his novel, both the road to becoming a doctor, and eventually practicing, bring forth emotions and force decision making that is beyond comprehension until one becomes part of the medical world. One such tough decision is in the area of assisted suicide, or assisted dying.

 

While the arguments for and against are grounded in legal and religious principles, and all have a certain amount of validity, there is a shift about to happen in this area that could make doctors decisions even more difficult. Without the fall back of the law to conclude when someone should die, doctors of the future will be put in a position where they must evaluate so much more than just the medical disease at hand. They will need to understand the impact of the disease on others and the validity of someone’s request to end suffering. 

 

Ultimately, understanding when it is acceptable to "pull the plug" is an evolving issue in Canada. Extensive knowledge and collections of ideas and support arguing both sides puts the government in a tough spot with this decision. Appreciation for doctors and medical staff in decades to come will be higher than ever.