My latest Controversies in Medicine video examines Medical Aid in Dying, the subject of one of the most difficult and personal debates in healthcare. In states where it is legal, MAID generally allows mentally competent adults with terminal illness and a limited life expectancy (six months or less) to request medication they can take to end their lives.

Supporters see it as an issue of autonomy and relief from suffering. Opponents worry about coercion, disability rights, and religious and ethical concerns. The following poll contains three questions, seeking your views on this difficult topic: 

1. Which statement comes closest to your view of Medical Aid in Dying?

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2. If Medical Aid in Dying is allowed, which safeguards matter to you? (Select all that apply)

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3. What concern weighs MOST heavily for you when thinking about Medical Aid in Dying?

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This month’s survey asks where you stand on the issue, what safeguards matter most and who should decide whether MAID is available.

CLICK “VOTE” FOR EACH QUESTION ABOVE

Thanks for voting! To see the final results of this survey, and for access to timely news and opinion on American healthcare, sign up for my free (and ad-free) newsletter Monthly Musings on American Healthcare.

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Dr. Robert Pearl is the former CEO of The Permanente Medical Group, the nation’s largest physician group. He’s a Forbes contributor, bestselling author, Stanford University professor, and host of two healthcare podcasts. Check out Pearl’s newest book, ChatGPT, MD: How AI-Empowered Patients & Doctors Can Take Back Control of American Medicine.