In this episode of Refuah & Psak, Rabbi Shlomo Brody speaks with speaks with Dr. Jonah (Yonah) Rubin, Ematai medical advisory board member and pulmonary and critical care physician at Mass General Hospital, about the medical and halachic considerations surrounding DNR (“Do Not Resuscitate”) orders. Dr. Rubin explains what CPR includes and that success should be measured not only by restarting the heart but by the chance of meaningful recovery. 

They address the confusion and tension DNR orders often cause, including misconceptions that DNR means “do not treat.” Both emphasize the importance of clear, proactive communication among rabbis, families, and clinicians, ideally through structured “goals of care” meetings, to clarify what the patient wants, distinguish between resuscitation and other treatments, and align medical decisions with the patient’s prognosis, values, and halachic guidance.