Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada: A Review for Canadian Dermatologists

Medical assistance in dying (MAiD) is an end-of-life care option legally available across Canada for individuals with a "grievous and irremediable condition." For patients in dermatology, particularly those with aggressive skin cancers, the physical and psychological toll of their conditions can be profound. As MAiD becomes increasingly integrated into Canadian healthcare, some dermatologists may be consulted by medical teams for their expertise in complex dermatologic conditions in patients who are considering end-of-life care options. Since MAiD has been legalized across Canada, it is important for healthcare practitioners in Canada, including dermatologists, to have a basic understanding of the legal and ethical considerations within a Canadian context. This manuscript reviews MAiD within the Canadian healthcare landscape. It briefly reviews the legal framework in Canada, ethical considerations, and the potential evolving role of dermatologists as "disease consultants."