Physician-Assisted Suicide at the Illinois House:
The Illinois Legislature is currently deliberating on the "End-of-Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients Act (HB 1328)." Proponents of this bill boast of the "humane" and "peaceful" timed deaths for terminally ill patients and seem to ignore the blatant issues associated with physician-assisted suicide (PAS).
The Top Reasons Illinois Should Reject PAS:
Coercion of the Vulnerable:
Terminally ill individuals and the elderly are particularly susceptible to external pressures and coercion. Family members, healthcare providers, or even insurance companies might unintentionally or intentionally influence these individuals towards physician-assisted suicide (PAS). Such coercion undermines the autonomy and dignity of the patient and, most importantly, their informed consent.
The Profit Motive of Insurance Companies:
Insurance companies have a history of denying coverage for life-saving treatments while pushing for PAS. For example, Stephanie Packer, a mother of four, was diagnosed with advanced-stage cancer. Her insurance provider denied coverage for chemotherapy but approved drugs for PAS at a minimal cost of $1.20. This blatant attempt to kill Stephanie highlights how such laws can create perverse incentives for insurers to prioritize cost-saving measures over patient care and dignity.
Erosion of the Physician-Patient Relationship:
The foundational principle of medicine is "do no harm." Encouraging or assisting in suicide contradicts this ethos. Instead of offering life-ending solutions, healthcare professionals should focus on providing palliative care and mental health support to alleviate suffering.
The Sanctity of Human Life:
Every human life is inherently valuable, regardless of circumstances. As a society, we should value human persons for who they are and not for what they do or produce. Like legalized abortion, legalizing physician-assisted suicide (PAS) sends a clear message that our worth is tied to our capabilities, especially in difficult circumstances.
Is PAS a Guaranteed Peaceful Death?:
Dr. Joel Zivot, an anesthesiologist at Emory University, has raised alarms about the drugs used in PAS. He notes that substances like Propofol, when administered in high doses, can cause a burning sensation in the lungs. Additionally, the use of paralytics can mask signs of distress, potentially leading to a death experience akin to drowning. He made this discovery after reviewing autopsies of individuals executed by lethal injection. Although PAS is propped up as a “merciful death,” there is evidence that it could be akin to waterboarding, which is a form of cruel and unusual punishment.
The “End-of-Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients Act” is promoted as a “compassionate choice” for terminally ill patients; however, the risks and ethical dilemmas associated with PAS cannot be allowed in Illinois.
ACT NOW – Fill out a Witness Slip TODAY!
On Friday, May 16th at 9 AM the Illinois House Executive Committee will be conducting a Subject Matter Discussion on HB 1328. Fill out a witness slip today to ensure that your Illinois House Representative hears from you!
