Navigating Death With Dignity or MAID in Oregon
At SOLADA, we uphold the belief that the journey towards the end of life should be guided by compassion, respect, and personal autonomy. The decision to explore Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) is profoundly personal and should be approached with thoughtful consideration and empathy. Our resources page is designed to support individuals and their loved ones through this process, providing essential forms and valuable information to facilitate informed decision-making. We are committed to honoring each person’s right to choose their own path with dignity and support.
To gain deeper insights into the MAID process and hear a perspective from the field, we invite you to read a thoughtful blog post by Dr. Megan Frost, a member of our steering committee and a prescribing physician for MAID in Oregon. Her expertise and experience shed light on this complex subject and offer guidance for those navigating this important decision.
Death With Dignity Reporting Forms and Instructions
Initial Steps for Patients Consulting Physicians about MAID
1. Determine Eligibility:
- Diagnosis: Ensure you have a terminal illness with a prognosis of six months or less to live.
- Mental Competence: Confirm you are mentally capable of making an informed decision.
- Residency: You must be a resident of Oregon.
2. First Physician Consultation:
- Discussing the Diagnosis: The physician will review your terminal diagnosis and prognosis with you.
- Explaining MAID: The physician will explain the Death with Dignity Act, including the process, potential risks, and the alternatives to MAID.
-Assessing Mental Competence: The physician will assess your mental state to ensure you are capable of making an informed decision.
3. Written Request:
- Submitting a Request: If you decide to proceed, you must submit a formal written request for the medication. This request should be signed and dated and needs to be witnessed by two people who meet specific criteria (not related to you and not a beneficiary of your estate).
4. Second Physician Consultation:
- Confirming Diagnosis and Eligibility: A second physician will review your case to confirm the diagnosis and ensure that all eligibility criteria are met.
- Further Discussion: This consultation will also include a discussion of your mental competence and the choices available.
5. Waiting Period:
- Mandatory Waiting Period: After the written request, there is a mandatory 15-day waiting period before a prescription can be issued. This waiting period allows time for reconsideration and ensures that the decision is well-considered.
6. Final Prescription:
- Prescribing Medication: If all criteria are met, the physician will prescribe the medication. You will receive detailed instructions on how to use it and the conditions under which it can be administered.
7. Medication Use:
- Self-Administration: The medication must be self-administered. You must take it voluntarily and in accordance with the provided instructions.
8. Documentation and Reporting:
- Documentation: Your physician will document the process and report the use of the medication to the Oregon Health Authority (OHA).
Additional Considerations:
- Counseling and Support: Patients are encouraged to seek counseling or support services to help navigate the emotional and psychological aspects of this process.
- Consultation with Loved Ones: While not a requirement, discussing your decision with loved ones and seeking their support can be an important part of the process.
This process ensures that patients fully understand their options and that all legal and medical criteria are thoroughly met.