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First Payment (50% of total)
Tier 2 — Full Cost: If you can afford the true cost of our services.
Agreement and Guidelines for a Safe and Peaceful MAID Process
Thank you for trusting our team. It is a privilege to support you through the process. This agreement provides important information to you as a non-resident of Vermont, to ensure a smooth, peaceful process navigating Vermont’s laws and regulations pertaining to Medical Aid In Dying (MAID), commonly referred to as Act 39. This agreement outlines how we can help you and what we need from you to provide effective support.
The Comfort Project team acknowledges that you are pursuing this process of your own free will. Our team members are not responsible for your decision and will not attempt to influence your decision or actions related to MAID.
What We Offer
The essence of our support is to provide non-medical care for MAID. We guide you through the steps from initial planning to being present on the day the medication is ingested.
We help clarify complex information about MAID eligibility requirements, as well as what is needed to successfully complete the process.
We help you coordinate with your medical team in Vermont: doctors, hospice and pharmacist, all separate and independent entities.
We assist in identifying appropriate local lodging during your visits to Vermont for doctors’ appointments, including a safe location for ingestion.
We provide information to help you coordinate post-mortem arrangements.
We provide an authorized courier to pick up the medication from the pharmacist and deliver it to the location of your ingestion.
We meet with you and your family/friends/caretakers the day before the ingestion to review the standard Vermont Medication Instructions and together we create a plan for ingestion day.
We keep the medical team (doctors and hospice) informed of logistical plans related to your ingestion.
On the day of ingestion, two members of our team are present to provide compassionate, practical care and support for everyone present.
With your authorization, and in accordance with Vermont guidance, we may assist with preparation of the medication and provide a supportive presence during ingestion.
After death, we notify hospice and the funeral home, which initiates the death certificate process and post-mortem care.
We remain present with your family/friends/caretakers until the ingestion and post-ingestion process is complete.
We provide resources about free grief support groups.
What We Need From You
A peaceful and smooth MAID experience depends on thoughtful preparation and collaboration. By purchasing this agreement, you acknowledge that you will be responsible for completing the necessary tasks described below.
Retain medical decision-making authority unless you have formally designated another individual through appropriate legal documentation. Please note that decisions related to MAID must be made and expressed directly by you, in accordance with legal requirements.
Provide us with the complete contact information including name, phone number, email address and physical address of yourself and a responsible caregiver who will remain present for the duration of your stay in Vermont.
Provide us with the schedule of your MAID medical appointments, including informing us of any changes to appointment dates/times.
Keep us informed of your desired ingestion date and notify us of any changes as soon as possible. We request at least two weeks notice whenever possible so we can help you plan and coordinate the necessary arrangements. (Scheduling your desired ingestion date is not entirely under our control).
Communicate any changes in your condition or situation that may impact your MAID plans.
Follow the guidance in the standard Vermont Medication Instructions regarding the protocol for ingestion day.
What We Do Not Offer
The Comfort Project does not assume custodial, medical, guardianship, or long-term care responsibility for you during or beyond the terms of this agreement.
The Comfort Project does not provide medical advice, medical treatment, nor make medical eligibility determinations, or prescribe medications. All medical supervision is the responsibility of the licensed, Vermont physicians and hospice providers involved in the MAID process.
Authorization for Disclosure of Information
With this agreement, you authorize your care provider from the non-medical support team of The Comfort Project to exchange information on your behalf with the following healthcare providers and professionals:
The physicians you work with for pursuing MAID in Vermont;
The hospice that supports you during your stay in Vermont;
The designated compounding pharmacist in Vermont;
Members of The Comfort Project team.
Scope of Information Disclosure
The information authorized for disclosure is strictly limited to logistical support matters and medical information as it pertains to MAID and does not grant access to retrieve, request, or receive medical records.
Right to Revoke Authorization
You have the right to rescind or revoke this authorization at any time by providing written notice to The Comfort Project. Revocation will not affect any disclosures already made with your consent prior to receiving your written notice.
Services Offered and Payment Structure
Below we describe the concrete services that we offer, yet equally important to us are the less tangible ways that we offer emotional guidance and support for the people who are involved in this extraordinary choice. This process has a profound effect on everyone involved and the comfort we provide is an important part of our work together.
Initial Planning Phase: First Payment (50% of total)
Payment Requirements: Due when you purchase our services. The first payment must be received within 5 days of purchasing our services. If the payment is not received within 5 days, we will consider it paused and you will need to re-confirm your participation prior to continuing.
Services Included with First Payment
You, your family, friends and caretakers will be given access to the Client Portal, a comprehensive compilation of helpful resources we’ve accumulated over the years.
Ongoing communication throughout the process to assist with planning
Coordination with your doctors, hospice providers, and pharmacists in Vermont
Meetings with you and your support team (via phone or Zoom) to develop a plan based on your needs, your timeframe, and those of our service providers in Vermont
Assistance with the coordination of travel and accommodations
Availability for questions as they arise and while you complete the three required doctors’ appointments
Duration of the Initial Planning Phase
This phase includes the period during which you are pursuing eligibility for MAID and completing the three required physician appointments. During this phase, services are provided while you still reside in your home state, and travel to Vermont for physician appointments, with the intention of returning home after each appointment.
Phase 1 services are available for up to twelve (12) months from the date this agreement begins. When this agreement expires, a new agreement and full payment are required to continue services.
Final Coordination Phase: Second Payment (50% of total)
Payment Requirements: Due once the ingestion date is confirmed with us. This payment should be received prior to your traveling to Vermont for the day you ingest the medication.
Services Included with Second Payment
We keep the medical team (doctors and hospice) informed of logistical plans related to your ingestion.
Together we identify an appropriate and safe location for your ingestion.
We assist in the coordination of post-mortem arrangements.
We meet with you and your family/friends/caretakers the day before ingestion to review the standard Vermont Medication Instructions; together we create a plan for ingestion day.
Our authorized courier picks up the medication from the pharmacist in Vermont and delivers it to the location of your ingestion.
On the day of ingestion, two members of our team are present to provide compassionate, practical care for everyone present.
With your authorization, we may assist with preparation of the medication in accordance with provided instructions.
After death, we coordinate the legal pronouncement of the death, completion of the death certificate and post-mortem care.
We remain present with family/friends/caretakers until the ingestion and post-ingestion process is complete.
We provide resources about grief support groups.
Duration of Final Coordination Phase
This phase begins when you arrive in Vermont for the purpose of remaining in Vermont to complete the MAID process, as coordinated with The Comfort Project, and expires twenty-one (21) days after your arrival.
The Comfort Project provides non-medical logistical coordination and support only. At no time does The Comfort Project provide medical care, custodial care, housing, or daily caregiving services. These services are yours or your designated caregivers’ responsibility, and the licensed medical professionals involved in the MAID process.
If you remain in Vermont beyond the twenty-one (21) day Final Coordination Phase, The Comfort Project’s coordination services conclude unless additional services are requested and agreed to in writing.
Any additional coordination or logistical support services requested beyond the twenty-one (21) day period may be provided at a rate of $500 per day, subject to availability and written agreement.
Term and Termination of Agreement
The term of this agreement shall commence on the date you purchase our services and remit your initial payment and shall terminate upon the earliest of the following:
Completion of services on ingestion day;
Expiration of the twelve (12) month Initial Planning Phase (Phase 1)
Expiration of the twenty-one (21) day in-Vermont Final Coordination Phase (Phase 2);
Termination by The Comfort Project due to non-payment, lack of a designated responsible support person, or circumstances outside the scope of this agreement.
Any of the following events that may initiate termination of services, understood as follows:
Events That May Initiate Termination of Services
Event A: Change of Mind to pursue MAID
We recognize that choosing MAID is a profound and personal decision, and you always retain the right to change your mind.
Event B: Natural Death prior to a planned, MAID death
Given the unpredictable nature and timing of death, we recognize that, while you are pursuing MAID, a natural death is possible.
Event C: Ineligibility for MAID, as determined by medical professionals
We recognize that eligibility for MAID is not guaranteed and that medical or legal variables may shift unexpectedly. This is rare.
Other unforeseen circumstances that make continuation of services impractical or outside the scope of this agreement.
Upon termination of the agreement, by either party, The Comfort Project’s obligations shall cease except for minimal, reasonable administrative wrap-up and minimal, reasonable coordination already underway.
Reimbursement
The Comfort Project’s fee reflects the significant administrative coordination, professional time, and logistical preparation required to support each client’s MAID process. The majority of this work occurs prior to your arrival in Vermont and for this reason, fees are generally non-refundable once coordination has begun.
However, our intention is always to act with fairness, clarity, and integrity — both toward the families we serve and toward the long-term viability of this work.The Comfort Project will review the circumstances with compassion and discretion, however, refund decisions are made at the sole discretion of The Comfort Project. Any consideration of reimbursement will take into account the extent of services already provided.
Waiver of Liability
You, your heirs, successors and assigns agree to waive any and all rights, claims or causes of action that you may have against The Comfort Project, and their team members who assist you to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.
Acknowledgements
You are agreeing to allow The Comfort Project to perform our services on the terms and conditions provided in this agreement. You agree to the waiver of liability stated above related to your decision to pursue MAID. This agreement is entered into voluntarily and with full understanding of its contents.
Tier 2 — Full Cost: If you can afford the true cost of our services.
Agreement and Guidelines for a Safe and Peaceful MAID Process
Thank you for trusting our team. It is a privilege to support you through the process. This agreement provides important information to you as a non-resident of Vermont, to ensure a smooth, peaceful process navigating Vermont’s laws and regulations pertaining to Medical Aid In Dying (MAID), commonly referred to as Act 39. This agreement outlines how we can help you and what we need from you to provide effective support.
The Comfort Project team acknowledges that you are pursuing this process of your own free will. Our team members are not responsible for your decision and will not attempt to influence your decision or actions related to MAID.
What We Offer
The essence of our support is to provide non-medical care for MAID. We guide you through the steps from initial planning to being present on the day the medication is ingested.
We help clarify complex information about MAID eligibility requirements, as well as what is needed to successfully complete the process.
We help you coordinate with your medical team in Vermont: doctors, hospice and pharmacist, all separate and independent entities.
We assist in identifying appropriate local lodging during your visits to Vermont for doctors’ appointments, including a safe location for ingestion.
We provide information to help you coordinate post-mortem arrangements.
We provide an authorized courier to pick up the medication from the pharmacist and deliver it to the location of your ingestion.
We meet with you and your family/friends/caretakers the day before the ingestion to review the standard Vermont Medication Instructions and together we create a plan for ingestion day.
We keep the medical team (doctors and hospice) informed of logistical plans related to your ingestion.
On the day of ingestion, two members of our team are present to provide compassionate, practical care and support for everyone present.
With your authorization, and in accordance with Vermont guidance, we may assist with preparation of the medication and provide a supportive presence during ingestion.
After death, we notify hospice and the funeral home, which initiates the death certificate process and post-mortem care.
We remain present with your family/friends/caretakers until the ingestion and post-ingestion process is complete.
We provide resources about free grief support groups.
What We Need From You
A peaceful and smooth MAID experience depends on thoughtful preparation and collaboration. By purchasing this agreement, you acknowledge that you will be responsible for completing the necessary tasks described below.
Retain medical decision-making authority unless you have formally designated another individual through appropriate legal documentation. Please note that decisions related to MAID must be made and expressed directly by you, in accordance with legal requirements.
Provide us with the complete contact information including name, phone number, email address and physical address of yourself and a responsible caregiver who will remain present for the duration of your stay in Vermont.
Provide us with the schedule of your MAID medical appointments, including informing us of any changes to appointment dates/times.
Keep us informed of your desired ingestion date and notify us of any changes as soon as possible. We request at least two weeks notice whenever possible so we can help you plan and coordinate the necessary arrangements. (Scheduling your desired ingestion date is not entirely under our control).
Communicate any changes in your condition or situation that may impact your MAID plans.
Follow the guidance in the standard Vermont Medication Instructions regarding the protocol for ingestion day.
What We Do Not Offer
The Comfort Project does not assume custodial, medical, guardianship, or long-term care responsibility for you during or beyond the terms of this agreement.
The Comfort Project does not provide medical advice, medical treatment, nor make medical eligibility determinations, or prescribe medications. All medical supervision is the responsibility of the licensed, Vermont physicians and hospice providers involved in the MAID process.
Authorization for Disclosure of Information
With this agreement, you authorize your care provider from the non-medical support team of The Comfort Project to exchange information on your behalf with the following healthcare providers and professionals:
The physicians you work with for pursuing MAID in Vermont;
The hospice that supports you during your stay in Vermont;
The designated compounding pharmacist in Vermont;
Members of The Comfort Project team.
Scope of Information Disclosure
The information authorized for disclosure is strictly limited to logistical support matters and medical information as it pertains to MAID and does not grant access to retrieve, request, or receive medical records.
Right to Revoke Authorization
You have the right to rescind or revoke this authorization at any time by providing written notice to The Comfort Project. Revocation will not affect any disclosures already made with your consent prior to receiving your written notice.
Services Offered and Payment Structure
Below we describe the concrete services that we offer, yet equally important to us are the less tangible ways that we offer emotional guidance and support for the people who are involved in this extraordinary choice. This process has a profound effect on everyone involved and the comfort we provide is an important part of our work together.
Initial Planning Phase: First Payment (50% of total)
Payment Requirements: Due when you purchase our services. The first payment must be received within 5 days of purchasing our services. If the payment is not received within 5 days, we will consider it paused and you will need to re-confirm your participation prior to continuing.
Services Included with First Payment
You, your family, friends and caretakers will be given access to the Client Portal, a comprehensive compilation of helpful resources we’ve accumulated over the years.
Ongoing communication throughout the process to assist with planning
Coordination with your doctors, hospice providers, and pharmacists in Vermont
Meetings with you and your support team (via phone or Zoom) to develop a plan based on your needs, your timeframe, and those of our service providers in Vermont
Assistance with the coordination of travel and accommodations
Availability for questions as they arise and while you complete the three required doctors’ appointments
Duration of the Initial Planning Phase
This phase includes the period during which you are pursuing eligibility for MAID and completing the three required physician appointments. During this phase, services are provided while you still reside in your home state, and travel to Vermont for physician appointments, with the intention of returning home after each appointment.
Phase 1 services are available for up to twelve (12) months from the date this agreement begins. When this agreement expires, a new agreement and full payment are required to continue services.
Final Coordination Phase: Second Payment (50% of total)
Payment Requirements: Due once the ingestion date is confirmed with us. This payment should be received prior to your traveling to Vermont for the day you ingest the medication.
Services Included with Second Payment
We keep the medical team (doctors and hospice) informed of logistical plans related to your ingestion.
Together we identify an appropriate and safe location for your ingestion.
We assist in the coordination of post-mortem arrangements.
We meet with you and your family/friends/caretakers the day before ingestion to review the standard Vermont Medication Instructions; together we create a plan for ingestion day.
Our authorized courier picks up the medication from the pharmacist in Vermont and delivers it to the location of your ingestion.
On the day of ingestion, two members of our team are present to provide compassionate, practical care for everyone present.
With your authorization, we may assist with preparation of the medication in accordance with provided instructions.
After death, we coordinate the legal pronouncement of the death, completion of the death certificate and post-mortem care.
We remain present with family/friends/caretakers until the ingestion and post-ingestion process is complete.
We provide resources about grief support groups.
Duration of Final Coordination Phase
This phase begins when you arrive in Vermont for the purpose of remaining in Vermont to complete the MAID process, as coordinated with The Comfort Project, and expires twenty-one (21) days after your arrival.
The Comfort Project provides non-medical logistical coordination and support only. At no time does The Comfort Project provide medical care, custodial care, housing, or daily caregiving services. These services are yours or your designated caregivers’ responsibility, and the licensed medical professionals involved in the MAID process.
If you remain in Vermont beyond the twenty-one (21) day Final Coordination Phase, The Comfort Project’s coordination services conclude unless additional services are requested and agreed to in writing.
Any additional coordination or logistical support services requested beyond the twenty-one (21) day period may be provided at a rate of $500 per day, subject to availability and written agreement.
Term and Termination of Agreement
The term of this agreement shall commence on the date you purchase our services and remit your initial payment and shall terminate upon the earliest of the following:
Completion of services on ingestion day;
Expiration of the twelve (12) month Initial Planning Phase (Phase 1)
Expiration of the twenty-one (21) day in-Vermont Final Coordination Phase (Phase 2);
Termination by The Comfort Project due to non-payment, lack of a designated responsible support person, or circumstances outside the scope of this agreement.
Any of the following events that may initiate termination of services, understood as follows:
Events That May Initiate Termination of Services
Event A: Change of Mind to pursue MAID
We recognize that choosing MAID is a profound and personal decision, and you always retain the right to change your mind.
Event B: Natural Death prior to a planned, MAID death
Given the unpredictable nature and timing of death, we recognize that, while you are pursuing MAID, a natural death is possible.
Event C: Ineligibility for MAID, as determined by medical professionals
We recognize that eligibility for MAID is not guaranteed and that medical or legal variables may shift unexpectedly. This is rare.
Other unforeseen circumstances that make continuation of services impractical or outside the scope of this agreement.
Upon termination of the agreement, by either party, The Comfort Project’s obligations shall cease except for minimal, reasonable administrative wrap-up and minimal, reasonable coordination already underway.
Reimbursement
The Comfort Project’s fee reflects the significant administrative coordination, professional time, and logistical preparation required to support each client’s MAID process. The majority of this work occurs prior to your arrival in Vermont and for this reason, fees are generally non-refundable once coordination has begun.
However, our intention is always to act with fairness, clarity, and integrity — both toward the families we serve and toward the long-term viability of this work.The Comfort Project will review the circumstances with compassion and discretion, however, refund decisions are made at the sole discretion of The Comfort Project. Any consideration of reimbursement will take into account the extent of services already provided.
Waiver of Liability
You, your heirs, successors and assigns agree to waive any and all rights, claims or causes of action that you may have against The Comfort Project, and their team members who assist you to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.
Acknowledgements
You are agreeing to allow The Comfort Project to perform our services on the terms and conditions provided in this agreement. You agree to the waiver of liability stated above related to your decision to pursue MAID. This agreement is entered into voluntarily and with full understanding of its contents.