B.C. court case could change medical assistance in dying across Canada

A B.C. Supreme Court case challenges policies that let faith-based facilities refuse medical assistance in dying; Health Canada reported 16,499 MAID provisions in 2024 and transfers related to facility policy vary by province.

The policy allowing faith-based health-care providers to decline medical assistance in dying (MAID) on their premises is being tested in the B.C. Supreme Court. Plaintiffs seek to have that policy struck down so patients would not be required to transfer to another facility near the end of life. The case has drawn attention because its outcome could influence MAID arrangements in other provinces. Health Canada reported 16,499 MAID provisions in 2024, a rise from earlier years. Key points: - The court challenge targets rules that permit faith-based facilities to prohibit MAID in their buildings. - Plaintiffs say the policy can force transfers for patients seeking MAID near the end of life. - The trial is before the B.C. Supreme Court, and witnesses have described how provinces handle MAID requests. - Health Canada data show MAID provision increased in 2024 and that transfers tied to facility policy vary by province (for example, higher shares reported in Manitoba and Alberta, and a smaller share in Quebec and some territories). Summary: If appealed, the case could reach the Supreme Court of Canada and affect how MAID is arranged across jurisdictions. The trial is currently underway in the B.C. Supreme Court. Undetermined at this time.