Documenting a Request from a Patient for Medical Aid in Dying
Fast Facts:
The correct term is medical aid in dying (MAiD). It is sometimes referred to incorrectly as euthanasia
or assisted suicide .
Many patients are told that MAiD is illegal in NJ or that it is not available. It has been legal in NJ since
2019.
It can take months for terminally ill, eligible patients to be referred to or find the right resource for
MAiD providers
30% of patients will die during the waiting period required by the NJ law (15 days)
30% of patients who have MAiD prescriptions choose NOT to use them at the end of life.
Only NJ licensed physicians can document a request for MAiD in the state of NJ.
Documentation of a Request for MAID to a NJ Licensed Physician:
Some things to consider:
You are simply and accurately documenting a conversation (as with any other conversation) that you
had with the patient who is requesting more information or a desire to consider medical aid in dying as
a legal and valid option.
This documentation can serve as the patient’s first request which can “start the clock” for them,
thereby reducing the amount of patients who die prior to completing the visits.
This does not require that you as a physician participate actively in any formal MAID evaluations,
including prescribing medication for this patient.
You are not identified/your name or license number is not included on any forms that are submitted to
the state of NJ for reporting purposes.
SAMPLE SCRIPT
Date / /
I met with patient, . In my judgment they have a limited life expectancy of 6 months or less due to their illness; . We discussed options for treatment and care at this stage. Patient (asked about / requested / would like / discussed wishes) for medical aid in dying (MAiD).
I do not participate in medical aid in dying (MAiD), but I provided the patient with resources for accessing this option.
Signed,
NJ Licensed Physician