MAiD Myths: Misery vs. Mercy – Spotlight Series

In this month’s Spotlight, Lonny Shavelson, MD, Chair for the American Clinicians Academy on Medical Aid in Dying dispels a common myth shared in conversations about Medical Aid-in-Dying (MAiD). It is a fact that the most common reason people fear their own death is a fear of pain. However, a fear of pain is not the most common reason that people request MAiD. The reality is many deaths are painless. While it is true that MAiD is a safe end-of-life option that can be used to avoid unwanted suffering, it should not be assumed that MAiD is the only way to a merciful death. MAiD is a great option for many people, but it is just one of thousands of end-of-life options that should be available to everyone. Lonny explains how he supports the right to MAiD, and would offer it to patients who want, but that he would never privilege it over other options or pressure his patients to take it.