MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IN DYING (MAID) IN ONTARIO – The Poverty Connection

The Associated Press recently reported that over three-quarters of individuals euthanized in 2023—when their death was not imminent—required disability support prior to their death, according to data from a presentation by the province’s chief coroner. This information was shared with AP by a researcher and a doctor on the condition of anonymity due to its sensitive nature.

The data revealed that nearly 29% of those euthanized for non-terminal conditions lived in the poorest areas of Ontario, compared to 20% of the overall population in the most deprived communities.

During his May presentation, Ontario Chief Coroner Dr. Dirk Huyer noted that individuals euthanized with non-terminal conditions were “more likely to reside in neighborhoods characterized by higher levels of residential instability, greater material deprivation, and increased reliance on government support.”

The figures suggest that poverty may play a role in Canada’s non-terminal euthanasia cases which would be a very troubling result.

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