Palliative care with adequate pain relief challenges the need for euthanasia legislation

Abstract

Background: In today’s society the ongoing discussion about euthanasia triggers emotionally charged debates surrounding the delicate balance between valuing life and respecting an individual’s autonomy. With the persistence of this debate, there has been the emergence of the concept of the so-called alternative: palliative care. Positioned as a substitute for euthanasia, palliative care aims to alleviate suffering in terminally ill patients without engaging in the ethical dilemmas associated with euthanasia. Methods: This paper explores the facets of palliative care highlighting its core objectives such as providing adequate pain relief as a compassionate alternative to euthanasia. Results: By examining palliative care as a comprehensive approach to end of life support, this study challenges the perceived necessity of euthanasia and advocates, for compassionate and dignified end of life experiences. Conclusion: In conclusion, palliative care emerges as a viable and ethically sound alternative to euthanasia, emphasizing the importance of compassionate end-of-life care and pain management.