Exploring How Internal Medicine Residents Approach Requests for Medical Assistance in Dying: An Exploratory Qualitative Study at the University of Calgary

Abstract

To develop Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) competencies and curricula, we aimed to create a framework outlining how internal medicine (IM) residents approach MAiD requests and identify subsequent learning gaps. We used qualitative descriptive methodology to explore individual participant responses to three clinical vignettes centered on aspects of MAiD, followed by a group discussion. Responses were recorded and transcribed. Codes were reviewed and iteratively organized into themes, highlighting the steps taken for each MAiD scenario. Themes were compared and classified into broader categories within a framework to describe the participants’ overall approach to MAiD requests. Three overarching categories illustrated the approach taken by participants when faced with MAiD requests: 1) Action: the pragmatic steps participants took to respond to requests 2) Decision: the rationale behind how participants decided if MAiD was an option; and 3) Reaction: the emotional reactions that arise from requests; each highlighted significant learning gaps. Participants lacked understanding in concurrent medical and symptom management, MAiD eligibility and referral criteria, roles and responsibilities, and were uncomfortable discussing MAiD. IM residents not only require education on MAiD as a topic but on developing an approach to responding to requests and ways of addressing subsequent personal reactions.