MAID stands for “medical assistance in dying” or “medical aid in dying,” which are both the same thing. This is a procedure governed by rigorous criteria outlined in both provincial and federal law. 

During the MAID procedure, the provider* administers substances that will cause the death of a patient who is suffering from a grievous and incurable illness that has become intolerable to them, thus putting an end to their physical or psychological suffering. The law offers each person the opportunity to decide how they want their end-of-life to be, in accordance with their values and their dignity. 

*The term “provider” refers to the physician or specialized nurse practitioner (SNP) who assesses the applicant and provides the MAID care.