Karnataka approves 'passive euthanasia' for terminally ill people
What's the story
The Karnataka Health Department has implemented a Supreme Court directive granting terminally ill patients the right to die with dignity. The policy is applicable to those suffering from incurable diseases or those who have no hope of recovery on life support systems. However, the implementation process includes a two-tier medical review procedure to ensure that each patient's condition is thoroughly assessed before any final decisions are made.
Review procedure
Two-tier medical review process for patient assessment
The first stage of the review process involves a primary board of three doctors who assess the patient's condition. This is followed by a secondary review by another panel of three doctors and one government-appointed physician. The results of these assessments are then compiled into a report and submitted to the court for final approval.
Final decision
Court approval allows withdrawal of life support
Upon receiving court approval, medical professionals can withdraw life support under their supervision. This allows the patient to die peacefully. It's important to note that this process is initiated only after a formal request has been made by the patient's family. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao stated on X that this policy "will immensely benefit those who are terminally ill with no hope of recovery."
Policy clarification
'Right-to-die' policy differs from euthanasia
Minister Rao clarified that this decision shouldn't be confused with euthanasia, stressing its applicability only to patients on life support who are non-responsive. Dr. Roop Gursahani of Mumbai's PD Hinduja National Hospital told TOI that while other states like Goa, Maharashtra, and Kerala have taken some steps in this direction, Karnataka is leading by fully implementing the policy for dignified death.
AMD introduction
Karnataka introduces advance medical directive
Along with the 'right-to-die' policy, Karnataka has also introduced an Advance Medical Directive (AMD), akin to a living will. The directive enables patients to record their future medical treatment preferences and appoint two people to take healthcare decisions on their behalf if they lose decision-making capacity. Minister Rao said, "This document will come in handy for medical professionals to decide on the kind of medical treatment that the patient needs."