End of Life

Within Sec 1233 it says that there will be consultations between the patient and the doctor and such conultations will include:

‘‘(B) An explanation by the practitioner of advance directives, including living wills and durable powers of attorney, and their uses."

So what's the problem with that. Many responsible people have done this without consulting with their doctors. I did. Those documents are on the top of my desk and occassionally I pull them out to make sure they state my desires. My children know that if something happens, they should go into my office, find those papers and follow my directives.

Also in 1233 it says the consultations will include:

‘‘(E) An explanation by the practitioner of the continuum of end-of-life services and supports available, including palliative care and hospice, and benefits for such services and supports that are available under this title."

OK. I've got that covered. So what's the problem? I guess this is where the "death computer" comes in. Who or what determines that "end-of-life" is here? Is it the doctor/patient or is it the computer/doctor? Remember that on page 58 paragraph D we are told that when the doctor dials up the computer, he/she may be told "nope, can't do that."

Most of us, I believe, are ready to accept that we have reached the point at which all future medical procedures, while heroic, are futile. We just don't want the government to be the one telling us that. And with so much in this bill, that's the way it seems.

This bill is not about health care. It is about control - absolute control of our lives by the government.