Quality of Life
In making decisions for the treatment of seriously deformed newborns or
persons who are severely deteriorated victims of injury, illness, or
advanced age, the WSMA agrees that the primary consideration should be
what is best for the individual patient and not the avoidance of a burden
to the family or society. Life should be cherished despite disabilities
and handicaps, except when the prolongation would be inhumane and
unconscionable. Under these circumstances, the WSMA agrees that
withholding or removing life supporting means is ethical. In situations
involving newborns, the advice and judgment should be readily available,
but the WSMA believes the decision whether to exert maximal efforts to
sustain life should be the choice of loving parents, unless there is
convincing evidence to the contrary. (JC 2.13-87) (Reaffirmed A-23)
The WSMA remains committed to providing support for medical interventions
that foster quality end of life care. (Res A-7, A-07) (Amended A-18) (Res
C-3, Amended A-23)
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Abbreviations for House of Delegates report origination:
EC – Executive Committee; BT – Board of Trustees; CPA – Council on
Professional Affairs; JC – Judicial Council; CHS – Community and Health
Services