Being Mortal. Book Summary

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Atul Gawande

What’s inside

Being Mortal by Atul Gawande explores the concept of mortality and how it is handled in modern medicine. Gawande illustrates the importance of prioritizing the patient’s quality of life over elongating life through medical treatment. The book also highlights the necessity of having difficult conversations about death and making end-of-life decisions.

You’ll Learn

  • Improved understanding of healthcare ethics
  • Insight into the medical profession’s approach to mortality
  • Increased empathy towards patients’ end-of-life decisions
  • Enlightenment on the importance of quality of life over longevity

Key Points

  • The challenge of accepting mortality
  • The shift from curative to palliative care
  • The importance of patient autonomy in end-of-life decisions
  • The role of modern medicine in prolonging life
  • The necessity of open discussions about death
  • The value of quality of life over longevity
  • The impact of societal views on aging and death

Who’s it For

  • Students in the field of medicine
  • Practicing medical professionals
  • Individuals interested in healthcare and ethics
  • People facing end-of-life decisions

About the author

Atul Gawande is a renowned surgeon, writer, and public health researcher. He writes about medicine for The New Yorker and has published multiple bestselling books. His work focuses on improving safety and efficiency in surgery and healthcare.