Canadian Euthanasia Doctor’s Remarks Spark Controversy in BBC Documentary
Dr. Ellen Wiebe, a Canadian physician associated with the organization Dying With Dignity, has faced criticism following her appearance in the BBC documentary "Better Off Dead?". The program, hosted by disability rights campaigner Liz Carr, aired on Tuesday night and explored the topic of assisted dying.
Dr. Wiebe, who has euthanized over 400 people, made comments that viewers found unsettling, particularly because of her cheerful demeanor while discussing the subject. "I've always loved being a doctor, but this is the very best work I've ever done in the last seven years," she said, attributing her enjoyment to the gratitude expressed by her patients and their families. Her behavior prompted unease among viewers, with reactions varying from discomfort to attributing her demeanor to possible nervousness.
In the documentary, Dr. Wiebe explained that the primary reason patients seek assisted death is a desire for autonomy and control. She outlined scenarios where individuals preferred to end their suffering on their own terms, despite the availability of palliative care options. The program also touched on the controversial aspects of Canada’s euthanasia law, known as MAiD (Medical Assistance in Dying).
Liz Carr, who is also an actress known for her role in "Silent Witness," traveled to Canada to gather insights from other activists and medical professionals on the topic. Carr, who has long opposed assisted dying, expressed concerns about the potential risks such laws pose to disabled individuals. She argued that societal inequalities make the legalization of assisted suicide unsafe and prone to mistakes and abuse.
The documentary has sparked debates about the ethics and implications of euthanasia. Viewers and commentators took to social media to express their differing opinions, highlighting the ongoing controversy surrounding MAiD, which was first legalized in Canada in 2016 and expanded in 2022 to include those living with debilitating disabilities or chronic pain.
"Better Off Dead?" is available for viewing on BBC iPlayer.