The Ethics of Physician-Assisted Suicide: Patient Autonomy vs. Medical Integrity

Physician-assisted suicide, otherwise known as PAS, has remained one of the most ethically controversial debates in modern medicine since the 1960s [1]. PAS is often limited to terminally ill patients, however, in recent times PAS has expanded to include individuals with severe mental health disorders and disabilities [2]. This paper explores widespread tensions between patient autonomy and the integrity of our medical system through the analysis of case studies, policies and legislations, and global cultural perspectives. We dive into the many intricacies of expanding PAS eligibility with the consideration of familial relations and involvement, public safety, and clinical misconceptions. We argue that nuanced, ethically informed approaches that prioritize patient-centered, compassionate, and evidence-based care and policy implementation.