Review
"A trail–blazing book which takes the study of medically assisted dying to new and important levels of understanding. Essential reading for today′s health professionals." ––Derek Humphry, author of Final Exit
"This highly readable, extremely interesting book offers what the debate over physician–assisted suicide needs most: honesty, integrity, and compassion. . . . This book must be read by any physician who considers helping a patient die?and also by any physician who considers refusing to help a patient to die." ––Margaret P. Battin, Department of Philosophy, University of Utah
"Beyond simply being one more account of the issue, Dr. Jamison uniquely provides a practical approach to patient care from a common ground that is applicable to all health care providers and patients regardless of any particular moralistic point of view." ––Gary A. Johanson, director, Palliative Care Services, The Cancer Center, Santa Rosa, California
Product Description
How should you respond when your patient asks for aid in dying?
This groundbreaking book is a much needed guide to the difficult and complex issue of assisted dying. Written with compassion and understanding, this is the first work to offer physicians and mental health professionals specific, concrete guidelines on counseling and assisting patients who are considering suicide. Based on his extensive experience with hundreds of patients, Stephen Jamison provides a balanced, well reasoned approach to this morally difficult situation. He leads you through the decision making process in a step–by–step manner, and provides a range of options, guidelines, and tools to help you.
This book provides you with a thoughtful and compassionate understanding as you
∗ become aware of the range of ethical, emotional, and practical concerns surrounding assisted dying
∗ understand more clearly your own thoughts and feelings about death and dying, and feel more comfortable with your own position regarding assisted dying
∗ comprehAnd more precisely the actual meaning of a patient′s expressed desire to die
Filled with suggestions, criteria, and techniques, Assisted Suicide will prove to be an invaluable aid when discussing this difficult issue with incurable and terminal patients, and their families and friAnds.
The Author
Stephen Jamison is president of the Mental Health Association of Marin County. He lives in Mill Valley, California.
Contents
1. The Ethical Debate
2. When a Patient Says I Want to Die
3. Responding to Requests for Help
4. Understanding Family Dynamics
5. Working Through the Choices
6. The Final Decision
