There was a strong attempt in the past few months to require effective referral of patients, overriding conscientious objection, for assisted suicide, euthanasia and other procedures in the new International Code of Medical Ethics being revised by the World Medical Association (WMA).
The initial draft of the Code contained language which required effective referral. Dr. Dan Sulmasy presented a strong case against effective referral at the initial meeting in Jakarta in early July and the effective referral language was eliminated at the August Washington, DC meeting through the excellent work of a group of American and Canadian physicians.
We are pleased to report that at the General Assembly meeting in Berlin, Germany last week, final approval was given to the Code of Ethics with the new compromise language eliminating effective referral
The dedication and work of these physicians, with the assistance of the Patients’ Rights Action Fund, now protect the medical profession from the encroachment of efforts to force physicians to comply with unethical procedures over conscientious objection.
Comments on the Proposed DEA Regulation The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has proposed a regulation which will require an in-person visit between doctor and patient prior to the prescribing of certain drugs. While telehealth provides access for many patients with chronic disease or disability – there is the opportunity for abuse. We support the intent
Once the Door is Opened to Euthanasia, the Slope will Slip Recently, Dr. Mark S. Komrad provided comments on the sickening story of a Belgian criminal euthanized at the end of February, 2023. His words provide exceptional insight into the ever slippery slope of assisted suicide. Read his insight below: This story I find
Mental Illness is not a Terminal Diagnosis Canada announced a delay in the implementation of assisted suicide for people with mental health disabilities. Since this delay, many proponents of and advocates against these laws have spoken up about this decision. Mr. Ashley Geddes wrote an article in the Alberta Times covering some of the reactions
