When a person is living with a terminal illness, they may have questions about end-of-life care. Understanding the options can provide a sense of control and peace of mind.
Some people may be curious about medical aid in dying (MAiD). This is an option that allows certain adults with a terminal illness to request medication they may take to end their life.
All end-of-life care discussions are deeply personal, and VNS Health does not provide or participate in MAiD. However, your VNS Health hospice team can listen, answer general questions, and connect you with trusted resources. Asking about MAiD does not affect the care, support, or compassion you receive from us.
What Is Medical Aid in Dying?
Medical aid in dying is one end-of-life option available to certain adults with a terminal illness. In New York State, eligible adults may request medication that they can choose to take themselves when pain and other symptoms become too much to endure. Even if a person receives the medication, they may decide not to take it.
For detailed information about the law, visit:
How Does Medical Aid in Dying Work?
New York State’s Medical Aid in Dying Act outlines a process that patients must follow:
- The patient must meet specific requirements
- The eligible patient must request the medication (family or friends cannot ask for it for them)
- A health care provider prescribes the medication
The medication allows the patient to die peacefully when their suffering becomes too much. Not all patients who receive the medication take it. But for many, knowing it’s available can reduce stress and anxiety.
Learn more about medical aid in dying:
Who Qualifies for Medical Aid in Dying?
In New York State, a person requesting MAiD must:
- Be over 18 years old
- Live in New York State
- Have a terminal illness with a life expectancy of less than six months
- Be mentally aware and able to make health care decisions on their own
- Be able to take the medication without help
Health care professionals, including mental health professionals, assess the person requesting the medication.
Family members, caregivers, and health care proxies cannot request MAiD for the patient. The terminally ill person makes the decision to request and to take the medication, and they must take it themselves.
For complete eligibility requirements, visit:
How VNS Health Supports
Patients and Families
End of life can be scary and overwhelming, and VNS Health is here to support our patients and their families. Asking questions about MAiD does not change our commitment to your care, comfort, dignity, or quality of life.
It’s important to know that we do not provide medication or participate in MAiD.
We can:
- Provide general information about MAiD
- Discuss hospice care and end-of-life options
- Help connect you with trusted outside resources
- Continue providing hospice and supportive care
We cannot:
- Prescribe or provide MAiD medication
- Participate in the MAiD process
- Act as attending or consulting providers for MAiD
Is Medical Aid in Dying Legal in New York?
Yes. New York’s Medical Aid in Dying Act was passed in February 2026. The law includes specific requirements and safety measures. Because these requirements can be complex, we encourage patients and families to review resources for complete information.
Resources about MAiD include:
Is Medical Aid in Dying the Same as Assisted Suicide?
No. Although the terms are often used interchangeably, they are very different — and this wording is part of the law. MAiD is an end-of-life care option. The person who chooses MAiD has a terminal disease and a life expectancy of six months or less. They are choosing how and when to die, not whether they are going to die.
Because MAiD is planned, it allows families and loved ones to prepare. Patients and their families receive support throughout the process, and families of patients in hospice care receive grief support.
For more information, visit:
Frequently Asked Questions
No.
Asking questions about MAiD does not affect the hospice care and support you receive from VNS Health. Our focus remains on helping you live as comfortably as possible and supporting you and your loved ones through every stage of care.
Yes.
You can talk with your hospice nurse, social worker, or spiritual care counselor about MAiD. We can provide general information, listen to your concerns, and connect you with resources for more detailed guidance.
No.
Under New York law, a patient must make their own request for MAiD. A family member, caregiver, or health care proxy cannot request MAiD for another person or give the medication.
However, family members and caregivers can ask questions, seek information, and receive support as they help a loved one navigate end-of-life decisions.
Coverage may vary depending on a person’s insurance plan and other factors.
For the most accurate information, contact your insurance provider.
For more information, visit:
You can also speak with your VNS Health care team if you need help finding or understanding information or understanding available resources.
