Engaging with Life and Death: Insights from Medical Ethicist Alena Buyx
"Avoidance of contemplating our mortality is universally avoided by all"
Chatting with celebrated medical ethicist, Alena Buyx, we delve into questions about life, death, and our choices—issues that matter to each of us. Buyx, a former Chair of the German Ethics Council, shares her perspectives on life, death, and the challenges we face in navigating these complex topics.
ntv.de: What's currently on most people's minds in terms of medical ethics?
Alena Buyx: Most people grapple with two fundamental questions: How do I want to live, and how do I want my life to end? The first question touches on personal lifestyle, health, and illness, while the second focuses, naturally, on the end-of-life experience.
Just over 70% percent of individuals pass away within healthcare facilities, and many don't experience a tranquil demise as they'd prefer.eleven percent of Germans even expire while artificially ventilated.
Why do many avoid making advance directives or appointing a power of attorney?
The human psyche recoils from contemplating mortality. We see this avoidance even in the realm of organ donation, where more than 90% of individuals support the idea, yet fewer people have documented their wishes.
Does that mean we're unwillingly switched off?
Studies suggest that more in-depth clinical ethics consultations often result in patients living a little longer. In my professional experience, I've observed that people are usually treated for longer than they desire.
How can being prepared help make better decisions?
Preparation can provide a sense of peace and clarity for the individual. More importantly, knowing a person's preferences empowers those entrusted with making decisions on their behalf.
For those who wish to fight until the end, opting for longer periods of artificial ventilation may be appropriate. Conversely, an individual who indicates they don't wish to be artificially ventilated, or expresses a desire to avoid intensive care units, should be respected.
Has the pandemic altered our perspectives on life and death?
The pandemic has been challenging, but it has also sparked a renewed appreciation for the precious nature of life. Preparation and openness in discussing these topics can make difficult situations less daunting and even meaningful.
Are these conversations more challenging for younger or older individuals?
Those in the midst of a long, fulfilling life may face different considerations compared to the young, with unexpected accidents or illnesses striking at any age. Reflecting on one's experiences and life situation is crucial for making informed decisions.
Middle-aged and healthy, but with grown sons, I've thought about my decisions should I become paralyzed or require a ventilator. What should I consider when deciding?
The question "How do I want to live?" often implies "How do I want to die?" Distribution of importance between health, comfort, and life quality are key considerations.
Advice:With the golden standard being preemptive care planning, engaging in open discussions with loved ones or professionals aids in creating a clear plan. Documents like a patient's directive and the authorization of someone to decide on one's behalf can help guide decision-making when it becomes necessary.
Can dying peacefully in a hospital be achieved?
A positive hospital experience entails maintaining a collaborative, open attitude. Recognizing that healthcare professionals are overworked yet caring often contributes to better care for the individual. Studies suggest that planning ahead and engaging in thoughtful discussions can significantly improve the hospital experience.
In a world where religion no longer dominates discussions on life and death, why have religious justifications persisted?
Religion continues to serve as a cultural reservoir, providing powerful arguments in ethical debates, as it was once the dominant force in shaping these discussions. Even as we become less religiously bound, religious values remain entrenched in our ethical frameworks.
How do developments in biotechnology impact ethical assessments?
New advancements in biotechnology place traditional ethical assessments under new scrutiny, raising questions that, in some cases, have yet to be answered conclusively. Engaging in open, interdisciplinary discussions can help clarify ethical boundaries and navigate these challenges.
What future ethical questions does Alena Buyx believe we should address?
The question of how to effectively integrate new technologies, such as AI, into healthcare will likely shape medical ethics discussions in the coming years. Ensuring that technology serves to improve human care and validates ethics will be crucial for ethical progress in healthcare.
Interview by Solveig Bach
Sources: ntv.de
- Topics: Life, death, healthcare, hospital, organ donation, health, ethical decisions, advance directives, power of attorney.
In line with Alena Buyx's observations, discussions about mental health and wellness could be integrated into the realm of medical ethics, considering their impact on personal lifestyle, health, and illness. Emphasis on vocational training and personal development as aspects of health-and-wellness could contribute to a more comprehensive community policy, benefiting individuals in navigating life's complexities.
Understanding the role of science in shaping our end-of-life experiences raises questions about the balance between technological advancements and ethical considerations. In the context of continued advancements in science, especially in biotechnology, engaging in interdisciplinary discussions becomes crucial for setting ethical boundaries and ensuring these advancements improve human care without compromising our values.
