People and their families have many decisions to make when faced with end-of-life care or intolerable suffering. It’s important for British Columbians to know and understand all the health-care options available to them.
What is medical assistance in dying?
Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) is when a doctor or nurse practitioner gives medication to end the life of an eligible person who has requested an assisted death. MAiD became legal in Canada in June 2016. Canadian MAiD laws include strict eligibility criteria and safeguards that must be followed before someone can have a medically assisted death.
Planning for your end-of-life care is a very personal process that may involve deep reflection for both you and your loved ones.
Your health care team is available to assist you through this process and can provide information on all available care options, including MAiD, if you choose. Talking with your family and loved ones about the different care options available to you can also be helpful.
Other care options
An important part of any discussion about MAiD involves considering other care options that might help reduce your suffering. These may include spiritual care, disability supports, community services, palliative care, or other medical treatments. Your MAiD assessors will talk to you about these options. You can then think about which ones might be right for you.
VCH provides a range of palliative and end-of-life supports and services for people living with serious illness, as well as for their families, loved ones, and caregivers. Learn more information about palliative and end-of-life care.
Contact us
Whatever you decide, your health-care team is here to work with you through this process and to honour and respect your wishes. If you, your health provider, or your family have more questions about medical assistance in dying, please get in touch with the Assisted Dying Program directly:
Toll-free phone: 1 (844) 550-5556
Email: AssistedDying@vch.ca
