Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD)

At Niagara Health, we understand that questions about Medical Assistance in Dying often arise during some of the most challenging moments in a person’s life.

People may be living with serious illness, loss of independence or ongoing suffering. Families and caregivers are often trying to support someone they love while navigating complex decisions.

MAiD is a healthcare service that is carefully regulated under Canadian law. The process includes required assessments, planning and safeguards to make sure each request is informed, voluntary and meets all legal criteria. Because of these requirements and the coordination involved, the process can take time.

The MAiD assessment process

MAiD assessments and services are available to eligible adult patients who are admitted to Niagara Health. Anyone who requests MAiD must go through a structured assessment process. The law allows only doctors and nurse practitioners to assess eligibility and prescribe or provide the medications for MAiD.

These assessments confirm that the person:

Meets all legal eligibility criteria
Has the capacity to make their own healthcare decisions
Is making the request voluntarily, without pressure

Assessors review medical information, speak directly with the patient and may consult other members of the care team. Scheduling these assessments can take time, especially when clinicians are supporting multiple patients across the region.

Planning for the procedure

Once eligibility for MAiD has been confirmed, the care team works with the patient to plan for the procedure and ensure all necessary supports are in place. This planning process includes several important steps.

MAiD is a carefully coordinated care option that is developed through thoughtful conversations between the patient, their loved ones (if they choose), and the healthcare team. Because it involves detailed planning and required safeguards, MAiD not an emergency service and may take several days or weeks to arrange.

MAiD is different from palliative care. Palliative care focuses on managing symptoms, providing comfort and supporting patients and families while allowing a natural death to occur.

The medications used for MAiD are highly regulated and must be ordered, transported, stored and administered in accordance with strict provincial and federal requirements. Ensuring safe and appropriate access to these medications requires careful coordination.

Planning also includes confirming the location of the procedure, coordinating the healthcare professionals involved and ensuring the patient and their family have the information, resources and support they need throughout the process.

Limited availability of providers

In Niagara, only a limited number of physicians provide MAiD. This can affect how quickly assessments and procedures can be scheduled, particularly during periods of higher demand or provider availability constraints.

While we work to coordinate care as efficiently as possible, provider availability is one factor that may contribute to delays.

Safeguards and support

There are checks and balances at every stage of the MAiD process. These safeguards are required by law and are in place to ensure the process is careful, ethical and respectful of patient wishes.

Throughout every step, our teams work to support patients and families with care, dignity and respect. We recognize how difficult this process can be and remain committed to clear communication and compassionate support.

About Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada

Medical Assistance in Dying is legal in Canada and is regulated under federal legislation. It allows eligible individuals to receive assistance from a qualified healthcare professional to end their life, under specific conditions and safeguards.

You can read more about eligibility, safeguards and how MAiD works in Canada on:

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