by Tanada » Sat 28 Jan 2012, 06:20:20
$this->bbcode_second_pass_quote('AgentR11', 'N')o mainstream religion requires heroic measures to sustain life. And that goes all the way down to something as trivial as simple antibiotics. You have the right to say "no". You have the right to NOT call 911. You have the right to fire any doctor you do not like for any reason or no reason at all.
If you do not wish to participate in the elderly / hospital / drug routine, you do not have to. You will not live as long. If that is acceptable, and is your preference, you do not need anyone's consent to make it so.
Modern medicine's failing is that it measures and classifies its success almost strictly based upon survival duration after event metrics. When you stomp on that metric, they get confused, and you need to be absolutely blunt about your intentions and desires; but if you are clear, generally they are smart enough to understand after a brief period of disorientation.
Sorry agent but the only way your statement is true is if you are able to live off the grid in isolation. If you are elderly you can sign a DNR at the hospital and try to go out peacefully, but unless you pass quickly your well meaning relatives or legal guardians can petition the court for Medical Power of Attorney and over rule your choice. It happens more often than you can imagine, just ask any medical practitioner who works with elderly patients in a hospital setting.
What it really boils down too is if you keep your mental facilities functioning at a high level. Nearly everyone, though there are a few exceptions, declines as they get close to end of life. The courts recognize that fact and the 'safe' choice to make is to give medical power of attorney to someone who clearly has all of their mental facilities in tact. Even families where it is discussed years in advance between the members of the family often struggle with end of life DNR type decisions. A shockingly high percentage of adults can't accept the fact that life ends at some point.