Many people are surprised to learn that in some U.S. states, terminally ill adults may legally request medication they can choose to take to end their life.

This option is called Medical Aid in Dying (MAID).

It is not available everywhere, and strict eligibility rules apply. Understanding what MAID is — and what it is not — can help patients and families have informed conversations about end-of-life choices.

My goal is not to persuade one way or another, but to explain the option so people understand it exists and what it involves.

What Is Medical Aid in Dying?

Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) is a medical option that allows certain terminally ill adults to request a prescription for medication they may choose to take to end their life.

The medication must be self-administered, meaning the patient must be able to take it themselves.

Death is a natural part of life that none of us will escape. For some people facing a terminal illness, MAID is one option they may consider when thinking about how they want the final stage of life to unfold.

This is a deeply personal decision that may involve medical, ethical, religious, and family considerations.

Who Is Eligible?

While the details vary slightly by state, patients generally must meet the following requirements:

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Have a terminal illness with a life expectancy of six months or less
• Be mentally capable of making their own healthcare decisions
• Be able to self-administer the medication
• Meet the state’s residency requirements

Most MAID laws require the patient to be a resident of the state where the medication is prescribed. As of this writing, Oregon and Vermont do not require residency, though policies may change.

📌Laws vary by state.

The process usually involves multiple steps and confirmation from healthcare providers that the patient meets eligibility criteria.

What Medical Aid in Dying Is Not

MAID is often misunderstood or confused with other end-of-life care decisions.

Medical Aid in Dying is not:

• Euthanasia (where a clinician administers medication)
• Hospice care
• Stopping medical treatment
• Withdrawal of life support

In U.S. MAID programs, the patient must request the medication and take it themselves.

Where Medical Aid in Dying Is Legal

As of this writing, Medical Aid in Dying is authorized in the following states and jurisdictions:

• California
• Colorado
• Delaware
• Hawai‘i
• Illinois
• Maine
• Montana
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York
• Oregon
• Vermont
• Washington
• Washington, D.C.

Laws can change, so it is important to verify current regulations in your state.

How the U.S. Approach Differs From Other Countries

MAID programs in the United States are more limited than programs in some other countries.

Most U.S. laws require:

• A terminal illness with a prognosis of six months or less
• Mental capacity to make healthcare decisions
• Self-administration of the medication

Some countries allow broader eligibility criteria or physician administration of the medication.

Cost

MAID medications are typically paid out of pocket.

Current medication costs in the United States generally range from approximately $600 to $800, although prices may vary by pharmacy and medication formulation.

While the medication itself is often not covered by insurance, Medicare and many private insurance plans do cover related services, such as:

• Physician visits
• Hospice care
• Symptom management

Hospice teams can help patients and families understand the process, manage symptoms, and ensure care aligns with the patient’s goals. Many patients choose to engage hospice services alongside MAID to support a more comfortable and supported end-of-life experience.

A Personal Decision

For some individuals, MAID represents autonomy and control during the final stage of life. For others, it conflicts with personal, ethical, or religious beliefs.

Understanding the option — whether you would ever choose it or not — allows people to make informed decisions and have thoughtful conversations with loved ones about end-of-life preferences.

Be informed. Be proactive. Be healthcare wise.

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical or legal advice. Laws and policies may change and vary by state.