Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) is a legal medical service in Canada. At an individual's request, a physician or nurse practitioner:
- administers a substance that causes the individual's death; or
- prescribes a substance for an individual to self-administer to cause their own death
It is common to have questions about this service. Here are answers to some of the ones we receive most often:
What are the steps in the MAiD process for patients? |
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There are three steps in the MAiD process for patients:
The patient can pause or change their mind about MAiD at any point in the process. |
Where can MAiD occur? |
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MAiD can happen anywhere, including:
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Who can request MAiD? |
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Anyone can request MAiD for themselves. However, a person can only receive MAiD if they meet all of the eligibility criteria. Two MAiD assessors will meet with you to determine if you meet the criteria. |
Who coordinates and provides MAiD at Osler? |
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At Osler, the Assisted Dying Resource and Assessment Team (ADRAT) provides MAiD information, assessments and procedures. This team includes, physicians, nurse practitioners, ethicists, and spiritual health therapists. |
How can I request MAiD? |
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To request MAiD, you can:
You must also make your request in writing. |
How do I make a written request for MAiD? |
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In Ontario, you can use a form called Clinician Aid A. Your written request for MAiD must be witnessed. For help finding a witness you can contact Dying with Dignity Canada at witnessing@dyingwithdignity.ca or 1-800-495-6156 ext. 40. |
Where can I get more MAiD information or support? |
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For more information about MAiD, speak directly with your physician or health care team. You can also contact Osler's ethics team at 905-494-2120 ext. 56630 or at ethics@williamoslerhs.ca. |
