Medical Aid in Dying (MAID): Medical, Ethical, and Legal Implications

There is growing acceptance in the medical community for medical aid in dying (MAID), according to multiple surveys. The issue of MAID is controversial and at times places physicians on the horns of a dilemma, especially given the Hippocratic Oath. This session will explore the medical, psychological and legal implications of MAID with a focus on various state laws, case reviews and suggestions for how practitioners can navigate their way through the maze of medical, ethical and legal issues, regardless of their position on MAID. This session does not advocate for or against MAID, but is educational in nature. Related topics including voluntary stopping of eating and drinking (VSED), stopping eating and drinking by advance directive (SED by AD), and euthanasia will also be discussed.

Learning Objectives:

At the completion of this session, learners will be able to:

• Recognize whether the law in their respective states contains an End-of-Option Act such that medical aid in dying (MAID) is legally permitted (currently allowed in 11 jurisdictions) as well understanding the federal restrictions on MAID.
• Define the ethical, medical, psychological and legal implications involving end-of-life decisions and appreciate how they impact you, your patients, your coworkers, and your practice.
• Identify how to navigate the maze of regulatory, ethical and legal issues surrounding end-of-life care while respecting patient/resident autonomy.
• Explore actual cases where physicians have been involved in end-of-life care, especially medical aid in dying, and learn how best to avoid any potential liability.