Abstract

Within the context of the debate over “the right to die”, some basic notions need to be clarified to discuss the acceptability of physician assisted suicide (PAS). Currently, PSA is not legal in Mauritius. The aim of this study was to assess the medical student attitudes towards PAS and compare the results of surveys among second, third, fourth and fifth year students. The study was conducted on 266 medical students at SSR Medical College, Mauritius by means of an anonymous questionnaire that comprised of 13 questions concerning personal perceptions, knowledge, attitudes and factors influencing decision making about PAS. Majority of students were in favour of PAS. The ‘patient’s prospects for improvement’ was considered as most important factor for decision making regarding PAS. Approximately half of the students became in favour of PAS over the course of medical school. This change in behaviour was mainly noted in the senior medical students that perhaps because of clinical exposure. Key Words Physician-assisted suicide, Attitudes, Medical Students, Ethics, Euthanasia.