Recent UK controversies in end-of-life care

Abstract

Modern medical techniques provide the ability to both save and prolong life, producing increased controversy in end-of-life care. The paternalism, of which doctors were often accused in the past, is generally no longer acceptable. With the introduction of the Human Rights Act 1998 and increased emphasis upon patient autonomy (and the supremacy of parents to decide what is best for their children), difficult dilemmas have been posed for the medical profession. Increased resort to the Courts occurs for declarations of lawfulness in relation to proposed medical treatment or the withdrawal of it. Such cases have created substantial debate attracting enormous public interest. Recent controversies such as Charlotte Wyatt, Diane Pretty, Leslie Burke and the Conjoined Twins have produced guidelines for Anaesthetists and Intensivists when seeking to make decisions in consultation with colleagues, patients and their families. Controversy and debate continues around such cases.