Episode 24: End-of-Life Care in a Changing Legal Climate with Jess Pezley

Jess Pezley, senior staff attorney at Compassion and Choices, explores the current legal landscape surrounding medical aid in dying legislation in California and across the United States, addressing challenges, misconceptions, and its connection to broader healthcare rights.

• Medical aid in dying laws face ongoing legal challenges from religious organizations
• A key challenge through United Spinal vs California claims the law discriminates against those with disabilities
• California's MAID model represents the ideal balance with robust safeguards against the more expansive Canadian approach
• The Supreme Court's Dobbs decision creates potential threats to healthcare autonomy broadly
• Approximately 37% of Californians who receive MAID prescriptions never use them, demonstrating the value of the option itself
• Most people accessing MAID are simultaneously receiving hospice care (94%)
• Legal challenges to abortion access and gender-affirming care create precedents that could impact end-of-life options
• Having end-of-life conversations and creating advance directives remains critically important for everyone
• The tight-knit community formed around Andrew's advocacy continues his legacy of compassion and determination

CHAPTERS:

0:20 Introduction

2:16 Jess Pezley's Path to Compassion and Choices

6:45 Working with Andrew

30:15 Disability and Bodily Autonomy

55:05 Canada vs. California MAID Models

1:01:30 Personal Impact of Working with the Dying

1:05:05 Favorite Pizza

1:08:00 Slippery Slope Argument

1:14:00 Andrew's Legacy and Strength