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The Powerful Constraints on Medical Care in Catholic Hospitals Across America
The article highlights a case involving a pregnant woman whose water broke prematurely, presenting a situation where her fetus had little chance of survival. Despite the woman's wishes to end the pregnancy, she was unable to receive intervention due to the hospital's adherence to Catholic directives that prohibit procedures like abortion. It highlights instances where patients are turned away from necessary care due to religious constraints, particularly in Catholic hospitals. Despite medical recommendations, patients may face delays or denials in receiving appropriate care, posing risks to their health.
By: Rachana Pradhan, Hannah Recht
Canada’s public health system is not equal for all
Canada's public health system, though founded on principles of equality and diversity, exhibits systemic biases adversely affecting Black Canadians. Studies reveal experiences of dehumanization, negligent communication, and unequal access to care among Black patients, leading to diminished trust and underutilization of healthcare services. These disparities are further exacerbated by socioeconomic barriers and a lack of culturally sensitive support systems. Addressing these issues is crucial for achieving true healthcare equity and reform in Canada.
By: Rayana Jamasi
Canadian bishops warn government ‘fully committed’ to expanding assisted suicide
In this article, there is a focus on the proposed expansion on MAiD. The decision, criticized by Canada’s Catholic bishops, highlights concerns about the readiness of the healthcare system to support vulnerable individuals. The bishops oppose assisted suicide, emphasizing the sanctity of life and advocating for increased investment in mental health resources. Despite the pressure, Catholic healthcare institutions maintain their stance against participating in assisted suicide, asserting their commitment to Catholic teachings.
By: John Lavenburg
Ordinary Catholics must rise up against MAiD
This article discusses anti-euthanasia education material being delivered by parishes to Canadians. It addresses the efforts of the Christian Medical Dental Association and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Sherwood, working together to bring an end to MAiD policies in Canada through lectures and open discussions. In Edmonton, those in Catholic leadership positions are aiming to demand better support to keep 'living patients living' rather than turning to MAiD.
By: Quinton Amundson
Access to MAiD should not cater to faith-based interests
This article criticizes the B.C. Ministry of Health's plan to accommodate MAiD services at St. Paul's Hospital. The author argues that the proposed solution (which involves creating a separate space for MAiD services due to the hospital's Catholic affiliation) is unconstitutional. The article highlights concerns about patient suffering caused by forced transfers, challenges to patient-centred care, and the infringement of constitutional rights in faith-based healthcare settings. There is emphasis on a redesign of the plan to prioritize patient needs over religious considerations.
By: Jocelyn Downie, Daphne Gilbert
Catholic Church challenging Quebec MAID law in court on religious freedom grounds
The lawsuit discussed in the article argues that the Catholic Church should be exempt from a section of the law requiring all palliative care homes in the province to offer medical assistance in dying. It claims the law forces the church into an unsolvable dilemma: either cease supporting its palliative care center or "accept that their property, a former church, be used to carry out acts they consider morally unacceptable."
By: Jacob Serebrin
Is the Catholic church getting "bailed out" when it comes to MAID in BC?
St. Paul’s Hospital in BC is now offering MAiD, but the process is complicated due to its affiliation with Providence Healthcare, a faith-based organization. Critics, including Dying with Dignity, argue that the current setup, requiring transfers to a separate facility, causes unnecessary suffering and delays. Many healthcare professionals support MAiD but are restricted by religious policies. The BC Ministry of Health has responded with plans for a dedicated MAiD space by 2024. However, critics like Scott Harrison believe more immediate solutions are needed, questioning the province's political will to resolve the issue.
By: Amir Ali
National Catholic Health Care Week: We Carry On The Healing Ministry of Jesus
National Catholic Health Care Week takes place Feb. 4-10. This article emphasizes the importance in marking the occasion, so Canada does not lose sight of "the extraordinary gift that we have in our country of Catholic health care."
It also discusses the sense of the dignity and sanctity of every human life, which Catholic healthcare principles stand on. The Archdiocese of Edmonton released a message for the 2024 celebration, titled ‘Hope and Dignity: A Catholic Response to Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide.’
By: The Archdiocese of Edmonton
Pro-Euthanasia Activists to Sue Catholic Hospital in Canada
Pro-euthanasia activists, supported by Dying with Dignity Canada, are preparing to sue St. Paul's Hospital in Vancouver for its refusal to provide medical assistance in dying (MAiD) within its facilities. The lawsuit challenges the hospital's adherence to Catholic ethical guidelines that oppose euthanasia. This legal action highlights the tension between secular advocacy groups and religious healthcare institutions regarding the provision of assisted suicide services in Canada.
By: Thomas McKenna
MAiD for mental illness must be stopped, not paused, Catholic and legal experts say
Archbishop J. Michael Miller welcomed the federal government's decision to delay the expansion of MAiD for individuals with mental illness but expressed disappointment that the government still intends to proceed with the expansion in the future. Advocates said the delay is not a victory, as proponents of MAiD are likely to continue their efforts during the pause. Legal experts and advocacy groups argue for a permanent pause on the expansion.
Phil Horgan, Catholic Civil Rights League: "The 'system' has gone far beyond anything contemplated by our Supreme Court. Perhaps some humility is in order."
By: The B.C. Catholic