By Chris Haring

The Medical Society of the State of New York recently joined the New York State Academy of Family Physicians in endorsing legalized physician-assisted death.

A proposed bill to expand end-of-life options for New Yorkers just received a significant boost: the Medical Society of the State of New York has thrown its support behind the proposed Medical Aid in Dying Act (A995/S2445).

As one of its lead sponsors, State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal (District 47), announced on April 15 and Luke Parsnow reported for Spectrum News NY1, the endorsement is not just a symbolic gesture. It reflects a growing acknowledgment within the medical community of the need for compassionate end-of-life options. 

With this backing, alongside support from other medical organizations like the New York State Academy of Family Physicians, the momentum behind the right-to-die movement across the state is undeniable.

Medical aid in dying is more popular than ever in New York

Sen. Hoylman-Sigal rightly emphasized the significance of this endorsement, highlighting that most doctors, including those specializing in palliative and hospice care, see the value in providing patients with the option of medical aid in dying. It follows closely on the heels of a Death with Dignity/Completed Life Initiative poll, which showed overwhelming public support from New Yorkers. 

The fight for greater accessibility to medical aid in dying is ongoing, but momentum is on our side! With every new endorsement, we move closer to a future where individuals facing terminal illness can navigate their final days with dignity and autonomy.

For more information on the status of Death with Dignity in New York, please visit the state page on our website.