What Is Medical Aid in Dying?
When a person is living with a terminal illness, they may have questions about end-of-life care. Understanding the options can help them make informed decisions and provide a greater sense of control and peace of mind.
Some people may be curious about medical aid in dying (MAiD). MAiD is an end-of-life option that allows certain eligible adults with a terminal illness to request medication they can choose to take to end their life.
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.
Discussions about end-of-life care are deeply personal. While VNS Health does not evaluate eligibility, prescribe, dispense, or administer the medication for MAiD, your VNS Health Hospice team is available to listen, answer general questions, and connect you with trusted resources. Asking about MAiD does not affect the compassionate care, support, or respect you receive from VNS Health.
For detailed information about the law, visit:
Is Medical Aid in Dying Legal in New York?
Yes. New York’s Medical Aid in Dying Act was signed into law in February 2026 and is officially scheduled to take effect on August 5, 2026. The law includes specific requirements and safety measures for eligible individuals and providers who participate in MAiD. Because these requirements can be complex, we encourage patients and families to review trusted resources for complete and up-to-date information.
The following are trusted resources for information about MAiD:
Who Qualifies for Medical Aid in Dying?
To be eligible for MAiD in New York, a person must meet all of the requirements established under New York law. Some of the key eligibility criteria include that the individual must:
- Be aged 18 or older
- Be a resident of New York State
- Have a terminal illness with a prognosis of six months or less, as confirmed by two physicians
- Be mentally aware and capable of making informed health care decisions on their own
Family members, caregivers, and health care proxies cannot request MAiD on behalf of another person. The decision to request MAiD — and whether to take the medication — must be made solely by the terminally ill individual, who must self-administer the medication.
For complete eligibility requirements, visit:
Understanding VNS Health’s Role in MAiD
End of life can be 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 the medication for MAiD or give it to you if you choose to take it.
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 supply MAiD medication
- Evaluate eligibility for MAiD, including decision-making capacity
- Administer the medication or assist you in taking or swallowing it
- Act as attending or consulting providers for MAiD
Patients who choose to pursue MAiD may continue to receive hospice care from VNS Health. Our commitment to providing compassionate care and support does not change.
Frequently Asked Questions
No.
Asking questions about MAiD or participating in 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 VNS Health Hospice nurse, social worker, or spiritual care counselor about MAiD. We can provide general information, discuss your questions, and connect you with resources for more detailed guidance.
No.
Under New York law, each person 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.
No.
Although the terms are often used interchangeably, MAiD and assisted suicide are very different — and they are treated differently under the law. MAiD is a legal option for end-of-life care. 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 for the end of life. Patients and their families receive support throughout the process, and families of patients in hospice care receive grief support.
Assisted suicide remains illegal in New York State and the rest of the country.
For more information, visit:
