October 2024
In March 2021, changes to the law introduced a two-track approach to the applicable procedural safeguards for Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID), based on whether a person’s natural death is reasonably foreseeable:
- existing safeguards were maintained and, in some cases, eased for eligible persons whose natural death is reasonably foreseeable (Track 1)
- new and strengthened safeguards were introduced for eligible persons whose natural death is not reasonably foreseeable (Track 2)
The Office of the Chief Coroner’s MAID Review Team has reviewed and identified some lessons learned for Track 2 cases, i.e. for individuals whose natural deaths were not reasonably foreseeable and who received Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID). The MAID Review Team has also identified opportunities that may assist MAID assessors and providers in interpreting Track 2 legislation and enhancing the assessment process.