['The public assumes that if euthanasia and assisted suicide were to be legalized they would be carried out by physicians.', 'In furthering critical analysis, we supplement the discourse in the ethics and palliative care literature with that from medical education and evolving jurisprudence.', "Both proponents and opponents agree that the values of respect for human life and for individuals' autonomy are relevant to the debate.", 'Advocates of euthanasia and assisted suicide give priority to the right to personal autonomy and avoid discussions of harmful impacts of these practices on medicine, law and society. Opponents give priority to respect for life and identify such harmful effects. These both require euthanasia to remain legally prohibited.'] Is euthanasia medical treatment?