Medical Assistance in Dying

Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) became legal in Canada on June 17, 2016. This means that a competent adult who has a grievous and irremediable medical condition that causes them enduring, intolerable suffering, and who clearly consents to the termination of life, may request MAID from a physician or nurse practitioner in Nova Scotia.

Physicians should familiarize themselves with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia (CPSNS) provincial standard of practice for MAID.

The NSHA provides a comprehensive FAQ about MAID for physicians.

If you receive a MAID request

If one of your patients has requested MAID, contact the NSHA’s Vice President of Medicine at 902-491-5892.

Doctors Nova Scotia also recommends contacting the CMPA (1-800-267-6522) and asking to speak to a physician advisor regarding MAID.

Providing MAID can be a rewarding but challenging experience. If you need support, contact the Professional Support Program at 902-468-8215 or 1-855-275-8215, or email professionalsupport@doctorsns.com.

Billing for MAID

The Fee Committee approved permanent codes for medical assistance in dying in June 2018. It is expected that these changes will be implemented in late July.

First and second assessments: 30 MSU/first 15 minutes, then 15 MSU/15 minutes, to a total of four hours
Prescribing physician: 30 MSU/first 15 minutes, then 15 MSU/15 minutes, to a total of four hours
- RO=FPHN: 30 MSU/15 minutes, then 15 MSU/15 minutes, to a total of four hours
- RO=SPHN: 56 MSU

Watch for full details in the July 2018 MSI Physician’s Bulletin.

Contact

Jessica Moore

Compensation manager, Master Agreement and Fee Schedule

902-481-4922

1-800-563-3427 ext. 4922

jessica.moore@doctorsns.com