Quote >> "One Sydney study found that only 2.8% of patients in a palliative care service requested euthanasia when first seen. After palliative care commenced, this number was reduced to less than 1% of those referred."

Yes, on might expect that the % seeking euthanasia would be low.

Dr Best's discussion of the use of morphine is disingenuous. Yes, morphine in normal doses provides therapeutic analgesia (in most cases). But higher doses are depressant, especially when used in conjunction with benzodiazapines or similar drugs.

Im not sure where the author got their information, but there is statements that seem unlikely to me.

Firstly she states that most doctors are against euthanasia. This occurs to me as extremely odd in my own experience. I regularly get work with doctors, and have 5 family members who work as either a nurse (dealing with cancer patients) or are doctors. All of them support euthanasia.

I definitely agree with the author that euthanasia and its administration is not a simple black and white process, however, it should not be dismissed.

I also believe that religion should stay out of it. If euthanasia is against your religious beliefs, then that is fine, don't volunteer for it. However, don't stop others from having the choice.