Year: 1998 Source: Journal of Long Term Home Health Care, v.17, no.2, (Spring 1998), p.29-37 SIEC No: 20030217

This article describes the historical background of euthanasia & the relationship of terminal illness, mental illness & fear of the unknown to suicide. A discussion of euthanasia in The Netherlands is included. The author asserts that social sanctions in The Netherlands have encouraged patients & physicians to see assisted suicide as a routine way of dealing with terminal illness, leading to a diminution in the quality & demand for palliative care. The United States Supreme Court’s rejection of a federal constitutional right to assisted suicide is discussed. (18 refs) (SC)