South Middlesex Times

Most Americans are not aware of medical aid in dying (MAID) options, despite its legality in certain parts of the United States, according to a study by Rutgers researchers. The study was published in JAMA Network Open and surveyed 3,277 adults across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., assessing their knowledge of MAID's legality and their potential interest in using it if faced with a terminal diagnosis.

Elissa Kozlov, an assistant professor at the Rutgers School of Public Health, highlighted that “survey respondents’ lack of awareness was particularly surprising in states where MAID is legal,” indicating that even those who have access might not know about these end-of-life healthcare options. For instance, while MAID is legal in New Jersey, only 11% of survey participants from the state knew about its legality there.

MAID is permitted in 10 states and Washington, D.C., reaching about one-fifth of the U.S. population. However, over half of the survey respondents were uncertain about its legality both nationally and within their own state. Despite this lack of awareness, 44% showed interest in possibly utilizing MAID if diagnosed with a terminal illness.

The study emphasizes equity issues within end-of-life care. “While historical data suggests that most patients who use end-of-life care are white and have some college education," said Kozlov, "our research found that interest in MAID spans diverse demographic groups.” Specifically, among survey participants considering MAID under certain conditions were 43.2% Asian participants, 34% Black participants, and 41.9% Hispanic participants.

Paul Duberstein from Rutgers noted systemic barriers such as financial constraints and difficulties accessing healthcare could limit access to MAID for underrepresented populations. The researchers suggest public education and policy initiatives are needed to ensure equitable access to these patient-centered options.

As more states contemplate legalizing MAID, these findings may guide policymakers and healthcare professionals toward strategies that support informed decision-making while reducing obstacles to accessing end-of-life care.