The Health Care Decision Guide for Catholics

By Patricia D. Stewart (c. 2007) carries the imprimatur of Most Reverend John Mulagada, D.D., Bishop of the Diocese of Eluru, India. The author has dedicated the book to "the greater glory of God and the Roman Catholic Church."

 

Catholics are often faced with end-of-life health care decisions. At these times, it is difficult for Catholics to obtain straight answers regarding health care. Many do not have the time or energy needed to research the Catholic Church's teachings regarding such decisions. Patricia Stewart has done that research and has condensed it into a straight-forward, readable format accompanied by questions whose answers will help the reader find the information needed to make a decision in line with the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.

 

Some principles are constant in the book. For example, even when death is imminent and inevitable (and in every other situation as well), "Nutrition and hydration should continue, even if provided by artificial means, as long as doing so nourishes the patient and alleviates his or her suffering." (p. 22)

 

Those ordering the book may also wish to order The Catholic Statement of Beliefs and Decision-Making Standards which can be attached to a living will to make it conform to Catholic standards. Information on how to order this document is in the book.

 

An Appendix of Sources for Further Reading lists Church documents and canons related to end-of-life issues. A thorough index helps the reader to find quickly the information he or she needs.

 

This is an excellent, affordable, readable resource that every Catholic should have. As decisions are made by government agencies and elected or appointed officials, or as the family must make such decisions themselves, the book will be a guide to authentic Church teaching.