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In the bustling and vibrant landscape of New York, the Living Will form stands as a vital tool for individuals wishing to express their healthcare preferences in advance. This document empowers people to outline their wishes regarding medical treatment in the event they become unable to communicate those desires themselves. Key aspects of the New York Living Will include the specification of desired medical interventions, the appointment of a healthcare proxy, and clear instructions regarding end-of-life care. By taking the time to complete this form, individuals can alleviate the burden on their loved ones during challenging times, ensuring that their values and choices are respected. Understanding the nuances of this form is essential, as it not only serves as a legal declaration but also fosters peace of mind, knowing that one's healthcare decisions are documented and accessible. Engaging with this important document can lead to meaningful conversations about health, autonomy, and the care one wishes to receive, ultimately promoting a sense of control over personal medical decisions.

PDF Specifics

Fact Name Details
Definition A New York Living Will is a legal document that outlines a person's wishes regarding medical treatment in the event they become unable to communicate those wishes themselves.
Governing Law The New York Living Will is governed by the New York Public Health Law, specifically Article 29-CC.
Eligibility Any adult who is of sound mind can create a Living Will in New York. This includes individuals who are 18 years or older.
Healthcare Proxy A Living Will can be used in conjunction with a Healthcare Proxy, which designates someone to make medical decisions on behalf of the individual.
Revocation Individuals can revoke their Living Will at any time, provided they communicate their intent clearly.
Witness Requirement In New York, a Living Will must be signed in the presence of two witnesses who are not related to the individual and who will not inherit under the individual's will.
Scope of Document The Living Will can specify preferences for various medical treatments, including life-sustaining measures and pain relief options.
Storage It is advisable to keep the Living Will in a safe place and inform family members and healthcare providers about its location.
Legal Validity A properly executed Living Will is legally binding in New York, ensuring that healthcare providers follow the individual's wishes regarding treatment.

How to Write New York Living Will

Completing the New York Living Will form is an important step in expressing your healthcare preferences. Follow these steps carefully to ensure that your wishes are clearly documented.

  1. Obtain the New York Living Will form. You can find it online or request a copy from a legal office.
  2. Read the instructions provided with the form to understand the requirements.
  3. Fill in your personal information, including your full name, address, and date of birth.
  4. Clearly state your healthcare preferences regarding life-sustaining treatment. Be specific about what you do or do not want in various medical situations.
  5. Sign and date the form at the bottom. Make sure to do this in the presence of a witness.
  6. Have at least one witness sign the form. The witness must be an adult who is not related to you and does not stand to gain from your decisions.
  7. Make copies of the completed form for your records and for your healthcare proxy, if you have one.
  8. Store the original form in a safe but accessible place. Inform your family members or healthcare proxy where it is located.

New York Living Will Example

New York Living Will Template

This Living Will is created in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. It outlines my wishes regarding medical treatment in the event that I become incapacitated and unable to communicate my preferences.

Personal Information:

  • Name: _______________________________
  • Date of Birth: ______________________
  • Address: ____________________________
  • City, State, Zip Code: ______________

Designated Healthcare Agent:

I hereby appoint the following individual as my healthcare agent:

  • Name of Agent: _______________________
  • Address of Agent: ____________________
  • Phone Number of Agent: ______________

Statement of Wishes:

If I am diagnosed with a terminal condition or in a persistent vegetative state, I wish to make the following directives regarding my medical treatment:

  1. If my condition is terminal, I do not wish to receive life-sustaining treatment that will only prolong the dying process.
  2. If I am in a persistent vegetative state, I choose not to be kept alive by artificial means.
  3. I desire comfort care to be provided to alleviate pain and suffering.
  4. I wish to have my wishes respected and communicated to all healthcare providers involved in my care.

Additional Instructions:

In addition to the statements above, I may provide specific instructions regarding other medical treatments. Here, I specify:

______________________________________________________________________

Signature:

I have executed this Living Will on the date indicated below.

Date: _______________________________

Signature: __________________________

Witnesses:

  • Witness 1 Name: ____________________
  • Witness 1 Signature: _______________
  • Witness 2 Name: ____________________
  • Witness 2 Signature: _______________

This document accurately reflects my wishes regarding medical treatment. I understand that I may revoke or amend this Living Will at any time.