Abstract

The Canadian MAID framework for mental illness will permit suicide facilitation under the guise of medical practice. MAID for mental illness is being operationalized by the government within a medical framework where it does not belong ethically or clinically. Persons seeking MAID for mental illness will be choosing suicide. The critical role for psychiatrists involved in the care of such patients is determining whether they are mentally capable of refusing continuing offers of psychiatric treatment. SuicideSuicidepreventionSuicide prevention is a social imperative that is undermined by the legalization of suicide assistance. MAID assessors and providers will be providing suicide facilitation while not appreciating the complexities and effectiveness of tertiary psychiatric care, and while placing the lives of Canadians at risk.