Professional experiences of formal healthcare providers in the provision of medical assistance in dying (MAiD): A scoping review

Abstract

Objective This scoping review describes the existing literature which examines the breadth of healthcare providers’ (HCP's) experiences with the provision of medical assistance in dying (MAiD). Method This study employed a scoping review methodology: (1) identify research articles, (2) identify relevant studies, (3) select studies based on inclusion/exclusion criteria, (4) chart the data, and (5) summarize the results. Results In total, 30 papers were identified pertaining to HCP's experiences of providing MAiD. Fifty-three percent of the papers were from Europe (n = 16) and 40% of studies were from the USA or Canada (n = 12). The most common participant populations were physicians (n = 17) and nurses (n = 12). This scoping review found that HCPs experienced a variety of emotional responses to providing or providing support to MAiD. Some HCPs experienced positive emotions through helping patients at the end of the patient's life. Still other HCPs experienced very intense and negative emotions such as immense internal moral conflict. HCPs from various professions were involved in various aspects of MAiD provision such as responding to initial requests for MAiD, supporting patients and families, nursing support during MAiD, and the administration of medications to end of life. Significance of results This review consolidates many of the experiences of HCPs in relation to the provision of MAiD. Specifically, this review elucidates many of the emotions that HCPs experience through participation in MAiD. In addition to describing the emotional experiences, this review highlights some of the roles that HCPs participate in with relation to MAiD. Finally, this review accentuates the importance of team supports and self-care for all team members in the provision of MAiD regardless of their degree of involvement.