ADVANCED DIRECTIVES

Thankfully, we all have the privilege and right to make decisions about the type of health care that we receive.  Anticipating that there may be a time when we are unable to communicate our wishes concerning the type of health care that we would chose to receive, it is important to have our sentiments spelled out in a document that makes our intentions clear.  Also, it is key to designate someone close to us as  "medical power of attorney." This is a person who understands what our preferences and wishes are in the event that we are unconscious and can make medical decisions on our behalf.  

Refer to the links below for more information: 

Advanced Directive Pamphlet from Overlook Hospital

Advanced Directive Form  from Overlook Hospital

(Please note that this form may not be valid in all states)

National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization

(Our thanks to Dr. John Gregory, chairman of the Overlook Hospital Department of Bioethics.)