The purpose of our qualitative health research study was to understand the experiences of Ontarians who accompanied someone throughout their dying process using medical assistance in dying (MAiD). The second phase used digital stories as a method to examine and share these experiences at the end of life. And then the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and we faced a pivot to our original plan. This pivot resulted in reinforcing the myriad benefits of using digital storytelling in qualitative health research. And rather than detracting from the initial study, we also learned that digital storytelling is a flexible method that can be creatively, compassionately, and effectively conducted in virtual spaces. We will employ digital storytelling in future qualitative health research as both a component of studies but also as a conduit for explorations of other tools of data collection and dissemination.

Objective To explore physician experiences with medical assistance in dying (MAID).Design An exploratory qualitative research approach using thematic analysis.Setting Six communities in northwestern Ontario.Participants Twenty-three physicians who perform, refer patients for, or are otherwise affected by MAID.Methods One semistructured focus group and one-to-one interviews, transcribed and analyzed thematically. Main findingsThe legislation of MAID added a layer of complexity to the work of physicians in northwestern Ontario, as MAID requires physician leadership, knowledge, time, and careful implementation. Four themes were identified from the interviews that unpacked this additional layer of complexity: relationships, motivation, time and resources, and getting others on board. ConclusionThe logistics of health care delivery in northwestern Ontario communities are complex and layered, which contributes to the burden of physicians as they work to provide MAID.This article has been peer reviewed. Cet article a fait l'objet d'une révision par des pairs.

Background: Options available to Canadians at the end of life increased with the legalization of medical assistance in dying (MAiD). Bill C-14 modified the Canadian Criminal Code allowing individuals who meet very specific criteria to receive a medical intervention to hasten their death. June 2019 marked 3 years since the legislation has changed and while met with favour from most Canadians who believe it will provide enhanced options for quality of life at the end of life, there remains much debate over both its moral implications and practical components. Little is known regarding the Canadian healthcare provider experience with MAiD, in particular in rural and remote parts of the country such as northwestern Ontario. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to explore physicians’ experiences in Northwestern Ontario with MAiD. The geographic location of this study is of particular significance as physicians in rural and remote parts of Canada face unique challenges in the provision of high-quality palliative and end-of-life services. This qualitative research focused on developing a better understanding of physicians’ perceptions and practices with MAiD, in particular regarding access, decision-making, provision of service and role clarity. Methods: The researchers employed an exploratory qualitative research approach, using 1 semi-structured focus group and 18 semi-structured interviews comprising 9 set of questions. Data were collected through audio-taped semi-structured interviews, in person and by telephone. Findings: Four distinct but interconnected themes emerged from thematic analysis of the transcripts of the focus group and interviews: physician perception of patient awareness, appreciation and understanding of MAiD; challenges providing true choice at end of life; burgeoning relationships between palliative care and MAiD; and physician recommendations. Conclusion: The results of this study provide a snapshot of the Northwestern physician experiences with MAiD and contribute to the growing body of work exploring these issues on a national scale. MAiD is highlighted as both a rewarding and challenging experience for physicians in Northwestern Ontario in this study.