Supreme Court Judgement on euthanasia path-breaking- Dr Girdhar Gyani, President AHPI
Advertisement
The judgment of the Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court is a path-breaking one and I am ever grateful to them for it.
It clarifies an important aspect that was causing confusion and laid out the procedure. This is with regards to the withdrawal of life support treatment when it is felt that it is not going to improve the condition of the patient and only increase suffering. The formation of a local committee within the hospital and at the District level will have a supervisory role and ensure that the decision taken is in the total interest of the patient.
Currently, hospitals were wary of possible litigation due to the then existing rule of needing to go to the High Court for each case and this created an environment of mistrust. Now, these decisions will be made ethically, with no fear of unnecessary harassment for the treating team.
The second issue is the recognition of the concept of an advance directive, also referred to as living will. This document will reflect the express wishes of a person, made when he is well and in his full senses, in the event of the person being terminally ill or suffering an acute episode.
Dr Girdhar Gyani is the founder of NABH and Director General of Association of Healthcare Providers of India. He is also the Chairman of the NABH review Committee.
Our comments section is governed by our Comments Policy . By posting comments at Medical Dialogues you automatically agree with our Comments Policy , Terms And Conditions and Privacy Policy .
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.