Mirandize patients?

[madamesilverspurs]

From a conversation this afternoon:

People suspected of crimes are told, "If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you." Why can't we appoint doctors to those 'suspected' of being sick?

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[paulsby]

1. well, from a constitutional basis

there is a constitutional right to due process, which is where the right to have an attorney appointed w.o cost essentially comes from (see: gideon vs. wainright) or read the book "gideon's trumpet"

there is no right to health in the constitution.

you certainly COULD appoint dr's to those who were sick

it's just not constitutionally mandated, as attorneys are (at least per judicial review via gideon v wainwright)

[customerserviceguy]

2. And there's a good reason for that

If you are suspected of committing a crime, the government may legally interfere with your rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Disease and injury are not necessarily caused by the government.

[vadawg]

3. and lets be honest mate, can you imagine the standard of the court appointed doctor

might be better to represent yourself in that case... how are you doing okay i hope, ive had a messy night, real bad attempted suicide...

[madamesilverspurs]

4. I don't think constitutionality is the point.

I understood the remark to be asking why the government can provide lawyers but not doctors.

Anyway.

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