Update on Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD)

Bill C-7 came into force in March 2021, bringing about significant changes to the federal medical assistance in dying (MAiD) legislation. Eligibility requirements were broadened to allow greater access while at the same time procedural safeguards were adjusted in an effort to address important concerns about protecting vulnerable Canadians.

This session will give you a solid understanding of the current MAiD legislation and how the Provincial MAiD Clinical Team has adapted their services accordingly. You will also hear about complex legal and policy issues that remain unresolved.

Topics that will be covered include:

• Removal of the eligibility requirement that an individual’s natural death be reasonably foreseeable;
• Eligibility as of March 2023 for individuals whose sole underlying medical condition is a mental illness;
• Waiver of final consent where an individual is at risk of losing decision-making capacity;
• Where things stand for mature minors or those wishing to make an advance directive;
• Access to MAiD by individuals receiving care in abstaining hospitals and personal care homes.

Presenters
Dr. Kim Wiebe, Physician and Medical Director, Provincial MAiD Clinical Team
John A. Myers, Taylor McCaffrey LLP