Citation

Adams RK. J. Forensic Sci. 2023; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, American Society for Testing and Materials, Publisher John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/1556-4029.15360

PMID

37578281

Abstract

Medical technology has made tremendous strides in extending the lives of patients who have suffered organ failure. Machines can now replace the function of the kidneys, the heart, and other vital organs. Much has been written about a patient's right to refuse or direct the withdrawal of medical treatment, especially at the end of life, under the guise of "death with dignity." However, little attention has been paid to the situation where a patient elects to deactivate their life-sustaining medical device without a physician's involvement. This raises the challenging question of whether the patient's manner of death should be classified as suicide or natural. Surprisingly, common law, statutes, medical ethics, and public health practice are not in alignment on the answer. This article will explore the ramifications and far-reaching impact that such divergence has on the survivors and the medical community, as well as recommend corrective actions and practical approaches for the medical and legal practitioner.

Language: en

Keywords

suicide; coroner; death; death certificate; death with dignity; end of life; euthanasia; forensic; life-sustaining medical device; manner of death; medical assistance in dying; medical ethics; medical examiner; pathology