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Advance Directives
Competent adults have the right to refuse or accept medical treatment after being informed of the procedures and risks.
However, there is growing concern over how medical care decisions will be made when people are unable to make decisions for themselves. Today, medical technology presents us with a number of treatments that prolong life. Some people do not wish such treatment; others wish to take advantage of every procedure available. Often, decisions must be made when the patient is no longer able to state preferences.
A growing number of people are stating their health-care choices in writing while they are still able to make these decisions.
These legal documents are called Advance Directives, more commonly known as a Living Will and Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care. You should talk to your physician about the effects of withholding or withdrawing different treatments. It is also a good idea to discuss your decision with your family. While it is not necessary to consult an attorney for your Advance Directive to be a legally binding document, it is often helpful.
Below you will find three documents that may be helpful. The first is a brochure provided by the American Hospital Association, explaining advanced directives. The other two documents are Living Will and Power of Attorney forms provided by the Iowa Bar Association. You may download these documents for your own use, or you may use other documents provided by your attorney.
If you have questions about Advanced Directives, please call the Skiff Social Services staff at (641) 791-4327.