Doctors alarmed by Health Canada's push for MAiD talks with patients
Summary
Some Canadian doctors are raising concerns about a Health Canada “Model Practice Standard” that would encourage physicians and nurse practitioners to raise the possibility of medical assistance in dying (MAiD) with patients they believe might be eligible and receptive. Critics argue that the guideline could amount to “compelled speech” and influence vulnerable patients toward considering euthanasia. A Health Canada spokesperson said the standard was developed with input from regulatory bodies and clinicians, but reiterated that the federal government cannot force provinces or health authorities to adopt it.
Relevance
Canada's MAiD landscape is recently and rapidly changing and expanding, this article illustrates some hesitance and concern among healthcare providers.