Izindaba
The Fabricius decision on the Stransham-Ford case – an enlightened step in the right direction
Abstract
Many diseases are associated with incredible pain and suf fering. Others impair func tion and independence to the extent that human dignity is eroded. In many instances the natural history of such conditions often leads to death within a reasonable period of time. In some cases, protracted ill health, pain, suffering and indig nity ensue. Such circumstances have since time immemorial triggered the debate on euthana sia – a debate on what it means to have a good death. Acting compassionately, many South African doctors have, to some extent, either passively or actively assisted patients in achieving a good death.
Author's affiliations
Keymanthri Moodley, Director, Centre for Medical Ethics and Law, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
Full Text
PDF (65KB)Keywords
Cite this article
Article History
Date published: 2015-05-28
Article Views
Full text views: 1106
Comments on this article
*Read our policy for posting comments here