Category Archives: “end of life”

Texas: Supporters of Texas “Futile Care” Law Continue to Maintain the Status Quo, Preventing Change

"end of life", bioethics, futility, Larry McAfee, life-ending decisions, medical discrimination, Our News & Commentary Blog, texas, Texas Alliance for Life, Texas Catholic Conference

On Sunday (May 8, 2011), the Austin American-Statesman published an update of sorts on the continuing stalemate over the Texas “futile care statute,” which translates as a “win” for supporters of the status quo. It’s a fascinating article – for many reasons.  But perhaps the most fascinating are the many contradictions contained in the article … Continue reading Texas: Supporters of Texas “Futile Care” Law Continue to Maintain the Status Quo, Preventing Change →

Barney Frank Demagogues “End of Life” Policy in Budget Discussion on MSNBC.

"end of life", Barney Frank, budget reduction, demagoguery, media coverage, Our News & Commentary Blog

I’m probably being more self-disclosing than I would like to here, but it was no accident that we caught this bit of demagoguery by Rep. Barney Frank on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe”.  The show usually has a good line-up of guests, representing a wide spectrum of political ideologies – and discussion occurs – mostly – with … Continue reading Barney Frank Demagogues “End of Life” Policy in Budget Discussion on MSNBC. →

Ireland: “They asked me why I would want to live” in Irish Times

"end of life", bioethics, breathing, Ireland, medical decisionmaking, medical issues, motor neuron disease, Our News & Commentary Blog, ventilator

It’s hard to believe it’s been about a month since I’ve written here.  Various health issues have kept me away from the keyboard, although I’ve been monitoring news and other information sources.  I just haven’t had the energy to write.  I’ll be doing my best to catch up over the next few weeks – there … Continue reading Ireland: “They asked me why I would want to live” in Irish Times →

Important Legal Victory for People Under Guardianship in Pennsylvania

"end of life", amicus brief, Art Caplan, betancourt v. trinitas, bioethics, futile care, litigation, Our News & Commentary Blog, Pennsylvania, Surrogate Decisions & Guardianship, Wisconsin

Last month, there was an important legal victory for people under guardianship in Pennsylvania.  The Supreme Court of Pennsylvania issued its ruling in the matter of D.L.H.  This appeal was made by the guardians of a man with developmental disabilities.  As reported in this 2009 blog entry, a lower court severely limited a guardian’s power … Continue reading Important Legal Victory for People Under Guardianship in Pennsylvania →

New Guidelines for Determining Brain Death – But Will Hospitals Actually Follow Them?

"end of life", brain death, organ donation, Our News & Commentary Blog, policy, reality check, safeguards

From USA Today – “When is someone brain dead? Experts revise guidelines“: Determining brain death is a complex process that requires dozens of tests to make sure doctors come to the correct conclusion. With that goal in mind, the American Academy of Neurology has issued new guidelines — an update of guidelines first written 15 … Continue reading New Guidelines for Determining Brain Death – But Will Hospitals Actually Follow Them? →