Good grief?: The impact of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) on grieving experiences in rural Southern Alberta
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Date
2025
Authors
Trottier, Maegan Gisela
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Health Sciences
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Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Health Sciences
Abstract
Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) has introduced new ethical, clinical, and social considerations in Canada’s healthcare system since its legalization in 2016. While research has explored the legal, policy, and practical implications of MAiD, less is known about the grief experiences of those closely involved in the process—particularly within rural communities. This thesis explores the grief experiences of patients, family members, and healthcare professionals involved in MAiD within a rural Southern Alberta context. Using a reflexive thematic analysis of qualitative interview data, this study investigates how participants described grief and what factors influenced their experiences.
Through this analysis, I generated three primary themes: (1) MAiD as a means to avoid a ‘bad death’; (2) bureaucratic processes and institutional policies that complicate the MAiD experience and related grief; and (3) the role of stigma and secrecy in shaping grief and limiting access to support. While many participants identified MAiD as enabling a more dignified and controlled end-of-life experience, the grief that followed was not always straightforward. Experiences were shaped by personal and professional relationships, the perceived legitimacy of MAiD within communities, and systemic barriers—including final consent policies and restrictions in faith-based facilities.
This research contributes to growing evidence that grief related to MAiD can be multifaceted and influenced by more than the nature of death itself. Findings underscore the importance of considering how rurality, cultural context, and stigma intersect to shape bereavement. The thesis concludes with recommendations for improving policy, support services, and future research, especially regarding the role of rural social norms and institutional restrictions in the experience of MAiD-related grief.
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Keywords
Medical Assistance in Dying , grief