What are the ethical concerns surrounding end-of-life care and euthanasia?

End-of-life care and euthanasia raise complex ethical issues that have sparked debates in the field of bioethics. One of the primary concerns revolves around patient autonomy, which emphasizes an individual's right to make decisions about their own medical treatment, including the choice to refuse life-sustaining measures or opt for euthanasia.

Quality of life is another critical consideration, as medical professionals must balance the goal of alleviating suffering with the risk of hastening death. Questions arise about whether prolonging life at all costs is always in the best interest of the patient and whether euthanasia can be a compassionate option for those with terminal illnesses.

Medical professionals face moral dilemmas in end-of-life decision-making, as they navigate between respecting patients' wishes, upholding principles of beneficence and non-maleficence, and adhering to societal norms and ethical guidelines.

Ultimately, the ethical concerns surrounding end-of-life care and euthanasia underscore the importance of ensuring that patients receive compassionate and dignified care while upholding principles of justice and respect for individual autonomy.