NEW Fox News articles can now be heard on audio! An staffer of Veterans Affairs Canada offered medical aid in dying to a veteran of the Canadian armed services who had traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Last Monday, the VAC acknowledged an instance “where medical assistance in dying was discussed inappropriately” with the veteran in a statement. After the veteran voiced displeasure at the notion, the agency promised that “necessary administrative action will be taken,” according to a story in Global News.
The veteran reportedly called VAC for PTSD treatment when the employee unpromptedly broached the subject of medical aid in dying or euthanasia. The suggestion allegedly startled the veteran. According to his family, who spoke to Global News, the soldier had been making strides in his physical and mental recovery and felt betrayed by the organization in charge of helping veterans.
VETERANS NEED IMPORTANT HELP ON PTSD AWARENESS DAY, AND MILITARY SERVICE MEMBERS ARE SEARCHING FOR BETTER SLEEP
Since the veteran’s experience, there have been concerns that the exchange may not have been an unique occurrence, which has prompted inquiries about how frequently the agency has offered or discussed MAID with people who have PTSD.
After receiving multiple complaints about the incident, the organization later called the veteran to apologize, stating that it “truly regrets what transpired.”
Canada authorized MAID in 2016, and revisions to the law in 2021 will expand who is eligible to receive the operation. Beginning in 2023, those with mental illnesses will also be able to use MAID.
However, the VAC, an organization in charge of providing care to a group of people who are already at a higher risk of suicide, does not have the authority to address MAID with veterans.
