Opinion: When compassion becomes discrimination: The ethics of MAID for mental illness |
On Dec. 5, Parliament debated Bill C-218, which would amend the Criminal Code to say that a mental disorder cannot by itself qualify a person for medical assistance in dying (MAID).
In February 2024, the federal government delayed the planned expansion of MAID for mental illness, pushing it to early 2027. While the decision to delay was framed as a matter of readiness, we might be better off asking what exactly it is that we are preparing for.
Supporters of the expansion argue the delay is discriminatory. If MAID is permitted for physical illness, then denying access to those whose only condition is mental illness is arbitrary and unjust. Respecting autonomy means giving everyone the same choice at the end of life.
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