View from the Center and Left Message Board

To: Sam who wrote (117356)	8/5/2009 10:48:52 AM
From: biotech_bull	of 226306

End of Life care is a microcosm of the Health Care crisis. I think we had this discussion before and the problem is what's end-of-life care for one maybe effective treatment for another patient who survives and recovers. This uncertainty of outcome is a big driver - where do we draw the line? Many would be uncomfortable drawing the line at even a 10-15% chance of survival. Of course there are situations where it's quite clear the care is mere prolongation of the dying process. And this part is driven by both sides - the family's expectations and beliefs; the doctor's bias, beliefs, concern for reputation, risk aversion and yes, even greed. I suspect this will turn with a rise in social awareness about the costs and that certain outcomes are worse than death. The irony is that intangibles like bedside manners and trust are often effective in guiding the right decision.