The group ‘Dying With Dignity Canada’ is alarmed about a provincial health Bill 41, that the organization believes, if passed unchanged, would further empower publicly funded hospitals to deny or otherwise obstruct one’s right to doctor-assisted death.

Group CEO Shanaaz Gokool says it effectively gives members of un-elected hospital boards final say over whether assisted dying will be allowed at their facilities.

She adds this raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to putting patients first.

“Canadians expect to be able to access a full range of end-of-life care options, no matter where they live,” adds Gokool.

“They should not have to endure the physical and emotional hardship or the indignity of having to leave their hospital, and perhaps even their community, to exercise what is their right to a peaceful death.”

Dying With Dignity says it’s learned the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care is not even tracking which hospitals are refusing to allow MAID (medical assistance in dying).