The euthanasia debate : key issues to consider within the local context

Abstract

The study lays down the multiple facades of euthanasia in the context of Malta, investigating its economic benefits and drawbacks. The focus revolves around the option value for choice, in contribution towards an individual’s utility knowing there is control over one’s life decisions till its end. The research compiled has revealed a large gap within the healthcare system with regards to terminal and end-of-life stages, noting that provision for specialised care is lacking. This has been investigated with the use of both a cross-country comparison of socioeconomic factors and in-depth one-to-one interviews with relevant experts in the field. It has been found that for rational decisions to be made that maximise utility with regard to end-of-life choices pertaining to EAS, the system first needs to exhaust all resources in promoting good quality of life in all stages of life. Thus, the shortcomings of the system are here identified and recommendations in promoting these services are given, as such a system will only increase the demand for euthanasia if no alternatives promoting better quality at the end stages are firstly provided.