Frequently Asked Questions

What is Medical Aid in Dying?

Medical Aid in Dying is a legal medical practice that allows eligible terminally ill adults to request and obtain medication that they may choose to self-administer to bring about a peaceful death. In California, Medical Aid in Dying is governed by the End of Life Option Act, while in New York, it is governed by the Medical Aid in Dying Act. Both laws establish specific eligibility requirements and safeguards to ensure that patients make informed, voluntary decisions.

Is Medical Aid in Dying legal in California and New York?

Yes. Medical Aid in Dying is legal for eligible patients in California under the End of Life Option Act and in New York under the Medical Aid in Dying Act. Both states have specific eligibility requirements and safeguards governing the process.

Is Medical Aid in Dying considered suicide?

No. Medical Aid in Dying is not considered suicide. It is a legal medical option available to certain terminally ill patients who meet specific eligibility requirements.

How is Medical Aid in Dying different from hospice care?

Hospice care focuses on comfort, symptom management, and quality of life for patients facing serious illness. Medical Aid in Dying is a separate option available to eligible patients under California and New York law. Many patients who pursue Medical Aid in Dying also receive hospice care, and the two can work together to support patients' comfort, dignity, and end-of-life wishes.

Who qualifies for Medical Aid in Dying?

Eligibility is determined by specific medical and legal requirements established under California and New York law. Factors include diagnosis, prognosis, decision-making capacity, ability to self-administer the medication, and residency in the applicable state. Dr. Wolford can help assess whether you may qualify during an initial consultation.

When is the right time to contact a Medical Aid in Dying physician?

It is often helpful to begin the conversation sooner rather than later. Patients must meet specific medical and legal requirements under California or New York law, including the ability to make informed medical decisions and participate in the required evaluations and request process. Starting early allows time to complete these steps while preserving the patient's ability to make decisions about their care.

For some patients, a rapidly changing medical condition can affect eligibility or available options. An early consultation provides time to understand the process, explore your choices, and make informed decisions without feeling rushed.

Do I need to be a California or New York resident?

Yes. Both California and New York require patients seeking Medical Aid in Dying to be residents of the state in which they are pursuing care. Patients must provide documentation or other acceptable evidence of residency in accordance with applicable state law.

Do I need a terminal diagnosis?

Yes. Medical Aid in Dying is available only to eligible patients with a terminal illness who meet the requirements established by Medical Aid in Dying law.

Do I need to be enrolled in hospice?

No. Hospice enrollment is not required to discuss eligibility or begin the Medical Aid in Dying process. However, hospice can provide valuable support for many patients and families.

What if I am unsure whether I qualify?

Many patients contact Dr. Wolford before knowing whether they meet the eligibility requirements. An initial consultation is designed to review your situation, answer questions, and help determine what options may be available.

How does the Medical Aid in Dying process work?

The process generally includes an initial consultation, eligibility evaluation, independent consulting physician review, required documentation, follow-up visits, medication prescribing, and ongoing support. Dr. Wolford helps patients navigate each step while ensuring compliance with California and New York law.

What happens during the first consultation?

During the initial consultation, Dr. Wolford reviews your medical history, discusses your diagnosis, answers questions, explains eligibility requirements, and helps you understand available options and next steps.

Why is a consulting physician required?

Both California and New York law require a second physician to independently evaluate the patient and confirm that the applicable medical eligibility criteria have been met. Dr. Wolford helps coordinate this evaluation as part of the Medical Aid in Dying process.

How long does the process typically take?

The timeline varies based on each patient's medical circumstances, required evaluations, and legal requirements. Dr. Wolford works closely with patients and families to help ensure the process moves forward appropriately and efficiently.

What if my condition is changing and time is a concern?

Some patients experience rapidly changing medical conditions. Timely communication and coordination can be especially important in these situations. Dr. Wolford works closely with patients and families to help navigate the process as efficiently as medically and legally appropriate.

Can appointments be conducted by telemedicine?

Yes. Telemedicine appointments are available for eligible California or New York patients and can often be used for consultations, follow-up visits, and ongoing support.

Can family members participate in appointments?

Yes. Family members, caregivers, and loved ones are welcome to participate when the patient wishes to include them.

Do I need to travel to receive care?

In many cases, telemedicine allows patients to receive physician guidance and support from home, reducing the need for travel.

Is my information confidential?

Yes. Patient privacy and confidentiality are protected in accordance with applicable medical privacy laws and standards.

Who prescribes the medication?

For eligible patients who choose to proceed, medication is prescribed by a qualified physician in accordance with California or New York law.

How is the medication obtained?

The medication is typically dispensed through a participating pharmacy after all required evaluations and documentation have been completed.

Am I required to take the medication if it is prescribed?

No. Receiving a prescription does not obligate a patient to use the medication. Many patients find comfort simply in having the option available.

What if I change my mind?

Patients may change their minds at any point in the process. Participation is entirely voluntary, and patients remain in control of their decisions throughout.

Why work with a Hospice & Palliative Care physician?

Hospice and Palliative Care physicians specialize in caring for patients facing serious illness, symptom burden, and complex medical decisions. This specialized training provides valuable expertise in end-of-life care and patient-centered decision-making.

What makes Dr. Wolford's practice different?

Dr. Wolford is double board-certified in Family Medicine and Hospice & Palliative Medicine, fellowship-trained at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, and an experienced Hospice Medical Director. She provides Medical Aid in Dying care to eligible patients in California and New York. Patients work directly with her throughout the process and receive personalized physician support, timely communication, and compassionate care coordination.

How do I get started?

The first step is to schedule an initial consultation. During this visit, Dr. Wolford reviews your situation, answers questions, discusses eligibility requirements, and helps determine the most appropriate next steps.

What does the process cost?

The initial consultation fee is $500. If you choose to move forward and are eligible for services, this fee is applied toward the total package cost. Additional pricing details are discussed during the consultation.