Breaking Barriers: Ensuring Free Will in Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD)

Problem Statement:

Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) is currently hindered by excessive regulatory restrictions, making it difficult for individuals to freely exercise their end-of-life choices. Complex criteria, prolonged assessments, and government delays a person's right to choose a dignified death, undermining individual free will.

Photo from Wix.

Background:

Despite MAID's legalization, barriers such as rigorous eligibility assessments, mandatory waiting periods, and extensive paperwork often cause undue suffering and prolonged distress. Critics argue these obstacles violate fundamental human rights, including autonomy, dignity, and personal freedom. Public opinion increasingly supports greater accessibility, emphasizing respect for individuals' informed choices about their own lives and deaths.

Solution:

A simplified, patient-centered approach to MAID is proposed, prioritizing individual autonomy and dignity. This solution includes:

• Reducing mandatory waiting periods to a minimal, compassionate duration.

• Streamlining assessment procedures.

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Conclusion:

Making MAID more accessible respects and honors individuals' fundamental rights to self-determination, dignity, Reducing unnecessary administrative obstacles ensures compassionate end-of-life care.

Recommendations:

• Provide education and training for healthcare providers to support patient choices confidently.

• Engage community and patient advocates in policy development to ensure responsiveness to patient needs and rights.

  
  

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Larry Collins is an end-of-life hospice doula dedicated to advocating for the dignity and autonomy of individuals approaching life's final transition. As a passionate supporter of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID), he champions the right for every individual to choose a "good death"—one defined on their own terms, reflecting their values, and desires.