Become an EOLWA GEM!
Become an EOLWA GEM!
Your Health Care Directive should specifically state the life-sustaining treatments you do or do not want.
1. Resuscitation
2. Use of an artificial ventilator, and
3. Artificial nutrition and hydration.
A Health Care Directive (also known as a living will, directive to physician, or physician directive) is a legal statement to all your health care providers that describes your general wishes or desires for end-of-life care. In particular, Health Care Directives speak to the question of whether and how you want to be kept alive by medical treatment if you are unable to make decisions.
Communicating your intentions so that others understand them; and committing your providers, family, care team and health care agent(s) to the acceptance (and sometimes defense) of your choices.
Let your agent know exactly what kind of care you wish to have, and what types of treatment you do and do not wish to have. Make clear to other family members that your health care agent(s) will have final authority to act on your behalf. If you feel that certain family members will not honor your wishes, you may include a statement directing health care providers and the courts to disregard his or her demands and to follow only the directives of your agent(s).
For the sake of all concerned, be sure to discuss your intentions face-to-face.
It should be in all your medical records.
When you present your Health Care Directive to your medical provider, ask if he or she will honor it. If not, find a provider who will. Most states do not require a specific form or format.
To make a Health Care Directive legally binding, you must sign the document in the presence of either two qualified, adult witnesses or a notary.
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