Abstract

In most jurisdictions where medical assistance in dying (MAiD) is legal, patients must have decision-making capacity. Brain cancer often damages the cognitive networks required to maintain decision-making capacity. Using qualitative methodology guided by a relational ethics conceptual framework, this study explored neuro-oncology clinicians’ perspectives on access to and eligibility for MAiD for patients diagnosed with brain cancer. We interviewed 24 neuro-oncology clinicians from 6 countries. Participants described the unique challenges facing brain cancer patients, potentially resulting in their inequitable access to MAiD. The findings highlight the importance of early end-of-life conversations, advance care planning, and access to end-of-life treatment options.

摘要

在大多数临终医疗救助 (MAiD) 合法的司法管辖区，患者必须具有决策能力。脑癌通常会损害维持决策能力所需的认知网络。本研究使用以关系伦理概念框架为指导的定性方法，探讨了神经肿瘤学临床医生对诊断为脑癌的患者获得 MAiD 的机会和资格的看法。我们采访了来自 6 个国家的 24 位神经肿瘤学临床医生。参与者描述了脑癌患者面临的独特挑战，这可能导致他们无法公平地获得 MAiD。研究结果强调了早期临终对话、预先护理计划和获得临终治疗选择的重要性。