Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare (MAHC) is seeking feedback from the community to help develop our policy regarding medical assistance in dying.
Bill C-14 continues to be debated, however, medical assistance in dying is permitted in Canada as of June 6, 2016, because of a unanimous Supreme Court of Canada decision. Through the Carter vs Canada decision, the court found that medical assistance in dying is no longer a criminal offence when a physician administers medication that intentionally brings about a patient’s death, at the request of the patient. The decision outlined specific criteria for medical assistance in dying. The decision also does not compel anyone to provide assistance in dying and the federal government will work with the provinces to connect patients with doctors and nurse practitioners who are willing to participate in medical assistance in dying.
An interprofessional committee at MAHC is working to develop a medical assistance in dying plan, clearly outlining the process for patients and caregivers, while respecting the opinions of everyone involved. Part of developing a clear, comprehensive plan for compassionate end-of-life care is understanding what questions or concerns our patients, families, community – as well as staff and physicians – may have. Values-based conversations have occurred with staff in focus groups, and MAHC has launched an online survey to gather community feedback to help shape MAHC’s plan. The survey is accessible on the home page of the MAHC website or by visiting the medical assistance in dying webpage.
As always, MAHC remains committed to ensuring that patients receive quality end-of-life care, and that their treatment wishes in this regard are valued and respected within a patient- and family-centered care environment.
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While I think a long drawn out painful hospital bed ridden, end-of-life scene makes this policy an appealing dignified option, I’m torn due to my faith in God and his final call on an individual’s life. I certainly don’t condemn anyone. It’s the patient’s choice whether they have a relationship with their creator. May God have mercy on those who are suffering with terminal illness.