#CaretoChat’s sixth season wraps up with a poignant discussion on MAiD

The sixth season of BC Care Providers Association’s Care to Chat speaker series came to an end last Friday with an emotionally-charged discussion on Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD).

Before a a sold-out audience of 110 stakeholders and members of the public, panelists addressed the challenges surrounding MAiD since its legalization in Canada. The panel discussion, moderated by broadcaster Jody Vance, featured Wanda Morris, former VP of Advocacy at CARP; Paddy Rodney, Associate Professor at UBC Nursing; Robert Breen, Executive Director of Denominational Health Association; and Colette Squires, Community Liaison to Darryl Plecas.

Panelists exchanged views on the role of MAiD in the provision of palliative care; expanding MAiD to include advance requests; the supports residents and care providers require to make ethical decisions about MaiD; and balancing the rights of individuals who want to access MAiD and the rights of providers and organizations opposed to it.

“We’re extremely thankful to our title sponsor (Rexall Health Solutions), gold sponsors (Medical Phamacies, Essity, Arjo), and silver sponsors (Blueleaf, BC Nurses’ Union, Sobeys Pharmacy)—the Care to Chat series is made possible thanks to their support,” says BCCPA CEO Daniel Fontaine.

“This season we went back to the roots of Care to Chat, tackling provocative and complex themes such as the use of cannabis among seniors, the media’s portrayal of the care sector, and medical assistance in dying. We thank the moderators, panelists and attendees for making the sixth season a rousing success. We look forward to seeing you at the next Care to Chat later this year,” he adds.

#CareToChat Social Media

Interesting to note at #caretochat that only between 2-5% of people choose MAiD regardless of how long a country has had the program. Yet #MAid garners lots of attention. @globalnews @CKNW @jodyvance pic.twitter.com/peonUP5tqc

— @Back2thebedroom (@back2thebedroom) April 5, 2019

Sure to be an interesting conversation. I've been through the palliative care rollercoaster a half dozen times now. MAiD is mercy, dignity and a form of medical care every adult should be able to choose for themselves.

— Shannon Waters (@sobittersosweet) April 5, 2019