Medical Assistance in Dying: Alberta Approach and Policy Analysis

ABSTRACTThe legalization of medical assistance in dying (MAID) in Canada has presented an opportunity for physicians, policy makers, and patients to rethink end-of-life care. This article reviews the key features of the Alberta MAID framework and puts it in the context of other provinces and their MAID programs. We also compared policies and MAID practices in different provinces/territories of Canada. In addition, we used the Alberta MAID database to provide the current state of patient demographics and access to MAID services in Alberta in 2017-2018. Significant differences were identified between provincial/territorial MAID program processes and practices. Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec have more comprehensive frameworks. Alberta has dedicated resources to the support of MAID. The median age of those who received MAID service in Alberta from July 2017 to April 2018 was 70 years; a higher proportion were males (55%) and the majority included patients with a cancer diagnosis (70%). Approximately 39 per cent of MAID events happened in a hospital setting, and 38 per cent occurred in patients' homes. We have presented some recommendations on MAID program development, implementation, and review based on Alberta's experience with MAID over the past two years.