[jrapdx3]

I'm a physician, an old one. We're lucky to live as long as we do, but life will end. The article emphasizes the value of dying peacefully. Sure, that's how we want it to be, but we have to make it known to assure it goes that way.

Don't know what happens elsewhere, but every time I see a doctor someone asks if I have a signed, notarized directive. Yes, I've done that, but so should everybody else concerned about the issue.

I have asked aged patients the same question. More than not the answer is "no". Why haven't you? Various versions of "on my list of things to do". We can't really predict future events, in our own interests best to be prepared. Some will take the hint, more than not, people procrastinate.

At least I've done what I can do, but we can't save people from themselves. Maybe people in healthcare are more aware of what's at stake, but everyone has the option to make it as clear as possible their wish (no, their demand) to die in peace.

[teiferer]

> Why haven't you?

It is (mentally) painful to think about that this life is going to end. And even more (mentally) painful to think about the consequences of a (physically) painful end. The mind goes to great lengths to avoid pain.

Plus, society doesn't exactly create a culture in which this kind of talk and preparations are encouraged.

[voiper1]

>At least I've done what I can do, but we can't save people from themselves.

Why should doctors NEED to save people from themselves?

The default should be what the people in the industry have learned, with full permission to say "For myself, I have written a legally binding document that this is my personal wishes. I suggest you make that decision for your loved one, too."

Patients have the ability to ask for more, but there shouldn't be a constant need to save people from inadvertently choosing risky/painful low payoff medical care!