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Accord Quote by Marcia Angell

“When death is imminent and dying patients find their suffering unbearable, then the physician's role should shift from healing to relieving suffering in accord with the patient's wishes.” quote by Marcia Angell
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“When death is imminent and dying patients find their suffering unbearable, then the physician's role should shift from healing to relieving suffering in accord with the patient's wishes.”

Marcia Angell

About This Quote

Source Article: The New England Journal of Medicine, 2015

Physicians should prioritize alleviating suffering over curing when death is near and patient wishes demand it.

In simple terms: Doctors focus on comfort at end of life.

Key Takeaway

Respect patient wishes for palliative care.

Themes

end‑of‑life palliative care patient autonomy

Mood

empathetic serious

Type

ethical medical

When to use this quote

  • hospice
  • terminal illness
  • advanced directives

Key Concepts

medical ethics compassionate care

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you discuss comfort care?
  • What supports patient autonomy?
A Different Perspective

Balancing hope and realism is complex.

2.7 out of 5 (3 ratings)

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