Albertans don’t support more provincial oversight of medically assisted deaths: survey

A survey conducted by the provincial government found the majority of Albertans do not support limiting access to medical assistance in dying (MAID).

The province conducted the survey in November to explore the idea of introducing limitations and provincial oversight.

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Forty seven per cent of people disagreed that the province should have more oversight while 38 per cent indicated they should.

When asked whether people with a mental illness as their sole condition should be prohibited from MAID, 45 per cent disagreed while 41 per cent agreed they should not have access.

And when asked if family members should be able to challenge a MAID decision, 55 per cent said no, while 35 per cent believed they should.

“Last November, Alberta’s government initiated a review of the province’s MAID processes and how it is regulated to ensure oversight is in place to protect Albertans, particularly those living with disabilities or suffering from mental health challenges,” Mickey Amery, minister for justice, said in a statement to CTV News Edmonton.

“The feedback gathered is currently being reviewed and will be used to help inform future planning, including potential legislative changes regarding MAID in Alberta.”

MAID was legalized in 2016. Since then, more than 4,000 Albertans have died with medical assistance.