Paying Attention to Medical Assistance in Dying

 On Wednesday of this past week there was a discussion in the Canadian House of Commons about the proposed expansion of eligibility for Medical Assistance in Dying. Originally the law was to have changed as of March 2023 to broaden access for those living with a mental disorder. This was an understandably controversial proposal and the decision was made to postpone until March of 2024. Wednesday all parties agreed to reconvene the special joint committee on MAID to provide further oversight. This after a failed effort by a Conservative MP to repeal access to MAID for those whose sole underlying medical condition is a mental disorder.

I was struck by how little media attention Wednesday's discussion received. As you may know, I support MAID, but not unconditionally. The concerns for the most vulnerable including those who are disabled, those with cognitive impairment, those who are living in poverty, those who can't access adequate health care, and those living with mental illness, are all real and deserve our attention as individuals and communities of faith.

 Every life is precious to God, no person is an inconvenience or disposable. The ready provision of hospice and palliative care is vital to ensuring dignity to the end of life. Yet I've concluded there are still times when MAID is merciful, and individuals deserve to make their own choices. While we have developed the medical technology to prolong life, there are times when quality of life has declined to the point where persons don't want to go on any longer. 

Over the past few years, beginning before the legalization in 2016, I've read fairly extensively regarding MAID. I've led study sessions, I've encouraged folk to respond to government surveys. There are times when by our societal unwillingness to explore the ethical complexities of MAID frustrates and disheartens me. And as people of faith this is vitally important. 

Simply censuring MAID is not the answer. So, we must continue to ponder, enter into prayerful and respectful  conversation, and respond so justice and mercy are served.