When someone has a terminal illness or is in debilitating pain from an incurable disease, it can be incredibly difficult for them to continue living.
Many individuals in these situations may choose to pursue physician-assisted dying as a way to end their own suffering. However, physician-assisted dying is not something that can be undertaken by just any doctor. In fact, there are only a handful of physicians who are trained and willing to assist in passing.
Below are six physicians who are passionate advocates for end-of-life issues and who are ready and willing to help those in need.
Dr. Bill House
Dr. Bill House is an emergency medicine physician and former Chief of Staff at the Delta Hospital in Delta, British Columbia.
He is a founding member of the Canadian Association of MAiD Assessors and Providers (CAMAP), which is an organization dedicated to providing medical assistance in dying (MAiD) to Canadians who meet the eligibility criteria. Dr. House has been an advocate for physician-assisted dying for many years and has worked tirelessly to ensure that patients have access to the care that they need.
Dr. Lonny Shavelson
Dr. Lonny Shavelson is a physician who has been working in the field of hospice and palliative care for the past 25 years.
He is also the founder of Bay Area End of Life Options, which is a non-profit organization that helps patients in California obtain access to physician-assisted dying. Dr. Shavelson is a strong advocate for individual autonomy and believes that patients have the right to choose how they want to end their lives. He is committed to providing compassionate care to those who are suffering and in need of assistance.
Dr. Stefanie Green
Dr. Stefanie Green is a family physician and the co-founder of the Canadian Association of MAiD Assessors and Providers (CAMAP).
She has been a strong advocate for physician-assisted dying and has worked to ensure that the legal framework surrounding MAiD in Canada is fair and accessible to all patients. Dr. Green is also the Medical Director for the Victoria MAiD Assessment Centre in Victoria, British Columbia.
Dr. Timothy Quill
Dr. Timothy Quill is a physician who is based in Rochester, New York. He is a specialist in palliative care and has been a strong advocate for patient autonomy and end-of-life issues for many years. Dr.
Quill is the author of several articles and books on the subject of physician-assisted dying, including the highly regarded book “Death and Dignity: Making Choices and Taking Charge.”.
Dr. Jessica Nutik Zitter
Dr. Jessica Nutik Zitter is a physician who is based in Oakland, California. She is board-certified in both emergency medicine and palliative care and has dedicated her career to improving end-of-life care for patients. Dr.
Zitter is the author of the book “Extreme Measures: Finding a Better Path to the End of Life,” which explores the ways in which patients and families can navigate the difficult decisions that come with end-of-life care.
Dr. Catherine Sonquist Forest
Dr. Catherine Sonquist Forest is a family physician who is based in Boise, Idaho. She is a member of the board for the Compassion & Choices organization and has been a strong advocate for the right to die with dignity. Dr.
Forest is also the author of the book “To Comfort Always: A History of Palliative Care Since The 19th Century.”.
Conclusion
Physician-assisted dying is a complex and controversial issue, but for those who are suffering from terminal illness or incurable pain, it may be the best option for ending their suffering.
The six physicians listed above have dedicated their careers to improving end-of-life care and ensuring that patients have access to the care that they need. They are passionate advocates who believe in the right to die with dignity and are committed to providing compassionate care to those in need.