TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW, 衛福部) on Wednesday (Dec. 4) addressed the contentious issue of euthanasia, a topic dear to renowned writer Chiung Yao (瓊瑤). The ministry emphasized the need for societal consensus, as euthanasia remains a complex issue intertwined with medical ethics, religious beliefs, and philosophical considerations.
In her final Facebook post, Chiung Yao highlighted the suffering endured by the elderly in their final days. Liu Yu-ching (劉玉菁), an official from the ministry, stated that active euthanasia equates to assisted suicide, which requires broad societal agreement. Currently, Taiwan lacks a complete consensus on this matter.
Liu noted that over 1 million people have signed advance directives for palliative care, and more than 91,000 have completed advance medical directives. Fang Chun-kai (方俊凱), chief of the Hospice and Palliative Care Center at Mackay Memorial Hospital (馬偕醫院安寧療護教育示範中心), remarked that Patient Right to Autonomy Act (病人自主權利法) significantly addresses issues of dignity for bedridden patients.
Fang drew parallels with Australia's Northern Territory, where euthanasia legislation was overturned due to constitutional issues, revealing cases of "Demoralization Syndrome." He advised older people to proactively address end-of-life issues and consult nearby medical facilities for advanced medical consultations.
>>> If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 1995 to reach the Suicide Prevention Line. You can also call the Peace of Mind Line, under the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW ), at 1925, or the Teacher Chang Foundation at 1980 for additional resources.
