![]() ![]() Preference in case of the persistent vegetative state: A condition where you are unresponsive and unconscious for an extended period of time.Preference in case of a terminal condition: An injury or illness where death is imminent.On the form, there are three main treatment decisions you’ll need to describe: Consider whether you would like to be kept alive by life-sustaining treatments or otherwise allow natural death to occur. ![]() Outline your treatment preferencesįirst, decide how you want doctors to treat you during a serious medical emergency. Related: What Is a Living Will? How to Make a Living Willįollow the steps below to complete your free Living Will using our document builder or downloadable templates. On the other hand, a Medical Power of Attorney gives someone you trust the power to make these medical decisions for you should you be unable to do so.īoth documents allow you to define your medical preferences and ensure your healthcare decisions are respected and followed. What is the difference between a Living Will and a medical power of attorney?Ī Living Will is a document specifically outlining your desires for end-of-life care by your own specifications and on your own terms. A Living Will explains your medical care wishes while you are living. In addition, it is not the same as a Last Will and Testament, which explains how you want your property and other items to be distributed when you die. It’s different from a Do Not Resuscitate form, which only authorizes healthcare professionals to withhold life-saving treatment such as CPR. It provides clear instructions for taking care of you during an emergency.įor example, this form allows you to explain your wishes regarding life support, organ donation, resuscitation, tube feeding, mechanical ventilation, dialysis, and medical and surgical treatments. Simply click on your state below to download a free printable living will form (in MS Word.docx format) that’s legally binding where you live:Ī Living Will, or Health Care Directive, is a document that tells doctors what end-of-life care and life-sustaining treatment you do (or do not) want to receive if you’re unable to communicate your choices. In many states, Advance Directives contain a Living Will, a written statement of preferences for medical treatment, and a Medical Power of Attorney, which appoints a trusted individual to make medical decisions on your behalf.Ĭombining these forms can help ensure medical professionals know how to follow your wishes even if they’re not clearly stated in your Living Will.īecause requirements vary across the US, you must use a state-specific form to start making your living will. This document provides peace of mind and clarifies your medical wishes to your family. With this form, you can outline what course of action medical workers should take if you fall into a coma or are unresponsive, such as how to prolong your life or manage pain. A Living Will is a type of health care directive that lets you define your wishes for medical treatment and care in an emergency situation. ![]()
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