Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) refers to a doctor or nurse practitioner helping an eligible person, at the person’s capable, voluntary, and explicit request, to end their life. As of June, 2016 MAiD is legal in Canada and is governed under federal law. This law was amended in early 2021, setting out the current eligibility requirements, safeguards, and processes under which MAiD can be provided to an eligible patient.
Deciding to have an assisted death is deeply personal. Patients are encouraged to talk with their family and loved ones, as well as their doctor or nurse practitioner caring for them. It is normal for there to be questions, by patients and health-care professionals alike. Whatever the patient decides, the health-care team is there to support them, and create a care plan that best honours their wishes.
If you, your patient, or their family have more questions, would like to discuss MAiD further, or if you are seeking a physician or nurse practitioner to assist a patient with exploring a request, please contact the Assisted Dying Program.
In this section
Forms
Guiding documents and links
Educational resources
Information for patients and families
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
A network login is required to access the links above
Contact
Phone: 1-844-550-5556 (within BC) or 604-875-4249 (outside of BC)
Email: assisteddying@vch.ca
Fax: 1-888-865-2941
Your comments and feedback are invited. Please submit suggestions for improvement for this page, or suggestions for other resources that would be helpful, as well specific or urgent questions to the Regional Clinical Educator for the Assisted Dying Program at amandaanna.stewart@vch.ca, or assisteddying@vch.ca.
