MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IN DYING (MAID)
You have the right to request medical assistance in dying if you are suffering from a serious health problem from which you will not recover.
What is medical assistance in dying?
Medical assistance in dying is provided by a physician or nurse practitioner. If your request is eligible, they may:
Administer a medication that will cause your death peacefully;
Prescribe a medication for you that will cause your death peacefully. You will be able to take that medication yourself.
When can you request medical assistance in dying?
When you are suffering from a serious health problem from which you will not recover;
When your illness is at an advanced stage and you will not recover;
When your suffering is constant and unbearable and cannot be relieved in any way that you find acceptable.
Examples: Terminal cancer, Advanced amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Advanced cardiac or pulmonary disease, Other.
Who can receive medical assistance in dying in New Brunswick?
You can receive medical assistance in dying if you meet all the criteria below:
You are 18 years of age or over;
You’re capable of making decisions about your health;
You’re eligible for publicly funded health care services in Canada;
You have serious health problems from which you will not recover;
You voluntarily request medical assistance in dying, with no pressure from others;
You’re able to understand the information about medical assistance in dying;
You’re able to give informed consent.
Exclusions:
Individuals suffering from mental illness (not accompanied by a physical illness);
Requests for medical assistance in dying made in advance (e.g. through a living will or through health care directives).