The Dutch experience with euthanasia: lessons for Canada?

Abstract

Anne Mullens used a recent fellowship provided by the Atkinson Foundation to take an in-depth look at euthanasia in the Netherlands. During her time in Holland, she discussed the issue with doctors who support and oppose euthanasia. She accompanied a doctor as he visited a patient who was dying of cancer and was beginning to consider the possibility of euthanasia. She talked to a nonphysician who is adamantly opposed to euthanasia and carries a card stating that. She visited a hospital in Amsterdam that has received requests from foreigners seeking euthansia. Mullens offers a comprehensive look at an issue that continues to provoke strong feelings among Canadian physicians and patients.