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Multiple Mini Mock Interview

To help you prepare for your next interview, here are 30 interview questions that you may be asked during a Multiple Mini interview.

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Question 9 of 30

Talk about physician-assisted death. When is this an appropriate solution?

"The ethics surrounding the legalization of physician-assisted death continues to be a controversial topic within the medical community in my region. Many people are concerned about the way they will die, wishing to escape a sufferable death from chronic illness and disease. This desire to die on one's terms is entirely understandable, and often justifiable. On the one hand, many in the medical community believe that by offering physician-assisted death, we dramatically alter the role of a physician within society. Many believe that the healthcare industry's focus should remain on delivering better access to hospice and palliative care for those requiring end of life care. Alternately, many healthcare professionals believe that the way we die is just as important as the way we live. Many healthcare providers believe that people should have the right to choose when their suffering ends. Patients facing instances such as incurable disease or a terminal illness with a prognosis of death in 6 months or less should be allowed to die with dignity and on their terms. I am an advocate for patient-centered care, which I believe includes end-of-life wishes, so long as the physician's clinical judgment is sound and the patient is of sound mind to make the decision surrounding their passing."

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How to Answer: Talk about physician-assisted death. When is this an appropriate solution?

  • 9. Talk about physician-assisted death. When is this an appropriate solution?

      How to Answer

      The controversy surrounding physician-assisted death is not a new topic. Depending on your region, and the laws surrounding physician-assisted death, your answer will vary. Bring to light not only your professional thoughts around the issue but also touch on the primary points discussed in the medical community. Be sure to present a balanced response that holds empathy for those desiring a physician-assisted passing.

      Answer Example

      "The ethics surrounding the legalization of physician-assisted death continues to be a controversial topic within the medical community in my region. Many people are concerned about the way they will die, wishing to escape a sufferable death from chronic illness and disease. This desire to die on one's terms is entirely understandable, and often justifiable. On the one hand, many in the medical community believe that by offering physician-assisted death, we dramatically alter the role of a physician within society. Many believe that the healthcare industry's focus should remain on delivering better access to hospice and palliative care for those requiring end of life care. Alternately, many healthcare professionals believe that the way we die is just as important as the way we live. Many healthcare providers believe that people should have the right to choose when their suffering ends. Patients facing instances such as incurable disease or a terminal illness with a prognosis of death in 6 months or less should be allowed to die with dignity and on their terms. I am an advocate for patient-centered care, which I believe includes end-of-life wishes, so long as the physician's clinical judgment is sound and the patient is of sound mind to make the decision surrounding their passing."

      Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

      Anonymous Answer

      "Death is certainly a tough topic to discuss, especially when discussing someone else's life. The topic of physician-assisted death is certainly not a new topic within the medical community. There are advocates of physician-assisted death and those that oppose it. On the advocate side, patients with an incurable disease or suffering from a painful disease may look to the physician as a means that would provide comfort or ease to their lifestyle. Patients certainly have a right to autonomy, and if they are determined to be in a sane state of decision-making by health professionals, then they have a right to exercise their autonomy and chose how they would like to pass or live. We must respect a patient's dignity and right of choice, even if that means providing a safe and viable method of death. In the opposing position, many in the medical field would see physician-assisted death as going against an oath to serve the best health of patients. By doing so we alter the responsibilities and moral obligations of the physician. It also goes against ethical behavior. In my professional opinion, I believe we as a physician should respect the patients' autonomy, and provide any means of comfort to their care, even the promise of comfort and safety with death."

      Stephanie's Feedback

      This is an extremely challenging topic, and you do a good job of balancing different perspectives and sharing your own professional opinion about the importance of ethical behavior. This answer captures a great deal of thoughtfulness from you!
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