Understanding MAID in the Context of Funeral Pre-Arrangements

The decision to proceed with Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) is deeply personal and often accompanied by a range of emotions. Families and friends may experience a mixture of relief, acceptance, sadness, and uncertainty. At Beechwood, we recognize the importance of providing not only professional guidance but also deep compassion and care during this sensitive time.

Each journey with MAID is unique, and our role is to offer unwavering support while ensuring that funeral arrangements align with their wishes. Understanding what to expect can help ease the process and provide peace of mind during this difficult transition.

Supporting Families with Care and Understanding

Providing Time and Space for Grief

• We understand that families may need additional time with their loved one after their passing. We respect these moments and allow families to take the time they need before bringing their loved one into our care.
• Since MAID can be called off at any time prior to the procedure, funeral homes do not keep staff on standby for immediate transportation. Instead, we ensure that our services are available when the family is ready.

Reaching Out for Support

• When the time comes, families should call Beechwood’s main phone line to coordinate arrangements once the Medical Certificate of Death is prepared.
• To ensure prompt assistance, it is best to use the main contact number rather than reaching out to a specific service representative’s cell phone.

Transportation with Dignity

• If the MAID procedure occurs in a private residence, we strive to arrive within two hours of receiving the family’s call, ensuring that the transition is handled with care and respect.
• If the procedure takes place in a hospital, hospice or retirement residence, families are still responsible for notifying us. In these cases, transportation will be arranged following standard protocols, prioritizing the family's needs and the dignity of the deceased.

Guidance Through Necessary Documentation

• To facilitate transportation and funeral arrangements, an original Medical Certificate of Death is required, or at minimum, confirmation that it is forthcoming.
• Even if a pre-arranged funeral contract is in place, a meeting with a licensed funeral director is still necessary. This meeting ensures that the legal registration of death and other essential paperwork, such as a cremation application, are completed properly.

Arranging a Meaningful Farewell

• While cremation or burial cannot be scheduled in advance, as the required legal documentation is only available after death, we work closely with families to ensure these services are arranged as smoothly as possible.
• Typically, obtaining a Coroner’s Cremation Certificate or a Burial Permit takes up to 48 hours after passing, and scheduling will be subject to availability.

Planning Ahead for Peace of Mind

• The only aspect that can be scheduled before a death is the arrangement meeting with a funeral director.
• This meeting, coordinated through our Funeral Coordinator, ensures that a dedicated professional is assigned to assist the family and that the process is as seamless as possible.

A Commitment to Compassion and Respect

At Beechwood, we understand that the journey of saying goodbye is never easy. Our goal is to provide a guiding hand and a compassionate heart, ensuring that every family receives the support they need. MAID is a deeply personal choice, and we are here to help navigate this process with the utmost care, honouring the wishes of both the individual and their loved ones.

For families seeking guidance, we encourage you to reach out. You are not alone—we are here to help, every step of the way.