Medical Aid In Dying

Summary

In Quebec, patients are not required to try all treatment options before considering Medical Aid in Dying (MAID). Physicians cannot suggest MAID but must provide information if asked. If a physician refuses a service for personal reasons, they must refer the patient to another provider. This ensures patient access to legal medical options and aligns with ethical standards. For MAID, physicians must refer patients to ensure their requests are addressed, maintaining continuity of care.

Full Conversation

*. Per the law, physicians cannot suggest MAID to patients, is that correct? *.*. If so, if MAID can be considered as a medial option (refer to question *.*.), how is it conflicting with the code of ethics of physician and their duty to inform, and any other legal framework physicians must adhere to?
In Quebec, the law states that physicians cannot initiate discussions about Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) with patients. However, they must provide all relevant information if the patient inquires about it. Here’s how it aligns with their duties:
- Duty to Inform: Physicians must inform patients about all available options upon inquiry, ensuring patients can make informed decisions.
- Code of Ethics: Physicians must respect patient autonomy while adhering to legal requirements.
Would you like more details on the process or eligibility for MAID?
*. According to the law in Canada or Quebec, if a physician refuses to perform an service to a patient for personal reasons (excluding MAID), even if she/he is legally allowed and experienced, is he/she legally obligated to refer the patient to another doctor or institution that provides the service? *.*. If not, how does that differ with MAID? Why would MAID be an exception? How is it conflicting with the code of ethics of physician, and any other legal framework physicians must adhere to?
In Quebec, if a physician refuses to perform a service for personal reasons, they are generally obligated to refer the patient to another doctor or institution that can provide the service.
For MAID (Medical Aid in Dying):
- Physicians must ensure the patient's request is addressed, even if they refuse to perform MAID themselves.
- They must refer the patient to another physician or institution willing to provide MAID.
- This ensures patient access to legal medical options and aligns with ethical standards of patient care continuity.
Would you like more details on specific legal or ethical obligations for physicians in Quebec?