Are You up to Standard? Updates to MAID eligibility

Bill C-7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying), came into effect on March 17, 2021. The amendments allow for Canadians whose natural death is not “reasonably foreseeable” to pursue medical assistance in dying (MAID). The bill also clarifies the eligibility criteria by stating those whose sole underlying medical condition is a mental illness are not eligible for medical assistance in dying at this time.

Alberta’s physicians are still able to opt out of providing MAID under CPSA’s Conscientious Objection standard of practice. However, even if MAID is not part of one’s medical practice, it’s important all physicians are familiar with the changes under Bill C-7 in the event a patient asks about MAID.

While the Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) standard of practice did not require any changes, the Advice to the Profession document has been updated to address the changes of Bill C-7.

AHS has updated its procedures, forms and website to reflect the Bill C-7 changes. Please take a moment to review their summary of the changes.

Questions? Please contact Chantelle Dick, Standards of Practice Advisor, at chantelle.dick@cpsa.ab.ca