Living Wills

So what is a living will exactly? It is a legal document that directs your physician to discontinue life-sustaining procedures (cardiopulmonary, artificial respiration and artificial hydration and/or nutrition) if you are in a terminal condition or a permanently unconscious state.

Living wills are very important b/c family members or loved ones are most often put in the position of having to decide whether to terminate or continue life support when there is no hope for recovery.  Having a living will means you have made the decision for them.

Unfortunately, in Connecticut our current living will statute more heavily favors providing liability protection to health care provider (doctors or hospitals) rather than protection to the patient right to refuse medical treatment.  Given the recent Terry Schiavo case it is time for our legislature to reconsider the statute in favor of stronger patient's rights. 

However, though not as strong as the law could be it is never the less the best way of conveying your wishes on this most personal choice.  It is always important to take control of your life and equally important to take control of your dying.  Having a written living will provides just that....control. 

Comments

[Sarah Hester]

Mr. Ewalt,
Having watched the World War II generation of my family dwindle and die over the past seven years, I appreciate even the attempt of a living will to express the wishes of those who can no longer do so.

That hits closer to home, for the majority of us, than the sad case of Terri Schiavo.

And, I appreciate you pointing out the limitations in Connecticut, perhaps in my home state as well. It's something I need to look into and did not expect.

Thank you for the thoughtful, succinct tone of your post.

[Apostille]

This is such a skeptical thought.. By the way your blog has interesting posts