A few months ago, we had reported that MAiD (Medical Aid in Dying) had been legalized in New Jersey and that there was no residency requirement. This was true at the time, but now one piece has changed. An appeals court in New Jersey has ruled that the law is valid, but that only New Jersey residents can be eligible for MAiD. This means that residents of nearby states like Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Connecticut can no longer travel to New Jersey to receive MAiD and would instead have to go to the closest state without a residency requirement, Vermont, something that patients who are eligible may have difficulty doing. The only other state that has no residency requirements is Oregon.
NJ residents can still choose to receive MAiD as long as they qualify, meaning they have a terminal illness with a doctor determining they have six months or less to live and can administer the treatment themselves. This Philadelphia Inquirer article, the main source for this email has more information:
Finally, if you need a refresher on MAiD, we did a webinar almost a year ago explaining what it is:
MAiD in New Jersey FAQ Page
What are the legal requirements for medical aid in dying in New Jersey?
To be eligible for MAiD, you must be at least 18 years of age, have a terminal illness with a doctor telling you you have six months or less to live, and ability to administer the treatment yourself. You also must be a resident of New Jersey.
How can I find a physician in New Jersey who supports end-of-life options?
If your current physician doesn’t support the end of life option you prefer, you can reach out to Death With Dignity by email at info@njdeathwithdignity.org where they will help you find a physician after a brief screening.
What is the process for obtaining medical assistance to end life in New Jersey?
There are two options for medical assistance to end life in NJ: Voluntarily Stopping Eating and Drinking (VSED) and Medical Aid in Dying (MAiD). VSED has no process, the patient can simply choose to discontinue eating and drinking. MAiD has a four step process. Two verbal requests must be made at least 15 days apart with two separate physicians, a written request with two witnesses with at least one non-family member, a prescription must be sent and either picked up or delivered from a pharmacy, and the signing of a death certificate.
What medical aid in dying products are legally available for terminal patients in New Jersey?
The drug used for Medical Aid in Dying is only available for terminal patients who have six months or less to live.
Does health insurance cover the costs of aid in dying services?
Usually, insurance does not cover any of the costs of Medical Aid in Dying. This includes Medicare. There will almost always be an out of pocket cost to MAiD. Voluntarily Stopping Eating and Drinking does not have a cost.
Can I buy medical aid in dying medication online from certified dispensaries?
No, you cannot legally get MAiD medication exclusively online. You must get it prescribed from a doctor in a medical facility in-person.
Where can I find a support group for families considering end-of-life choices in New Jersey? Providers like Hospice of New Jersey, VNA Health Group, Samiratan NJ, and many more provide support groups for individuals and families considers end of life choices in New Jersey.
