Homepage Free Living Will Form Legal Living Will Form for the State of New York

New York Living Will Sample

New York Living Will Template

This Living Will is executed in accordance with the laws of the state of New York. It expresses my wishes regarding medical treatment in the event that I become unable to communicate those wishes myself.

Patient Information:

  • Full Name: ________________________________
  • Date of Birth: _____________________________
  • Address: __________________________________
  • City: _____________________________________
  • State: ____________________________________
  • Zip Code: _________________________________

Health Care Proxy:

I appoint the following person as my health care agent to make medical decisions on my behalf if I am unable to do so:

  • Agent's Full Name: ________________________
  • Agent's Address: __________________________
  • City: _____________________________________
  • State: ____________________________________
  • Phone Number: ____________________________

Directions for Health Care:

In the event of a terminal illness, persistent vegetative state, or any condition that would prevent me from expressing my wishes regarding medical treatment, I direct my health care agents to follow these instructions:

  1. If I am unable to communicate or make decisions for myself, do not resuscitate me if my heart stops.
  2. Provide comfort care and pain relief, using whatever means necessary to keep me comfortable.
  3. If I have an irreversible condition, do not use life-sustaining treatments that only prolong the dying process.
  4. If I am diagnosed with a condition with no reasonable hope of recovery, I request that my life support be removed.

Additional Preferences:

Describe any additional preferences regarding medical treatment:

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

Signature:

I, ________________________________, declare this document serves as my Living Will, created on this _____ day of ______________, 20____.

___________________________
Signature of Patient

Witnesses:

Witness 1: ____________________________ Signature: ________________________

Witness 2: ____________________________ Signature: ________________________

This Living Will must be signed in the presence of two witnesses or a notary public to be legally binding.

Instructions on Utilizing New York Living Will

Completing the New York Living Will form is an important step in ensuring your healthcare preferences are respected. This document allows you to communicate your wishes regarding medical treatment in case you become unable to express them yourself. Below are the steps to guide you through filling out the form accurately.

  1. Begin by downloading the New York Living Will form from a reliable source, such as the New York State Department of Health website.
  2. Read the form carefully to understand its sections and requirements.
  3. In the first section, provide your full name and address. This identifies you as the individual creating the Living Will.
  4. Next, indicate your date of birth. This helps to confirm your identity further.
  5. In the designated area, clearly state your preferences regarding life-sustaining treatment. Be specific about the types of treatments you would or would not want.
  6. If applicable, appoint a healthcare proxy. This person will make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
  7. Review the form for any additional information required, such as your signature and the date of signing.
  8. Sign the form in the presence of at least two witnesses. Ensure they also sign and date the document.
  9. Make copies of the completed form for your records and share them with your healthcare proxy, family members, and healthcare providers.

Once you have filled out and signed the Living Will, keep it in a safe place where it can be easily accessed. It’s also wise to discuss your wishes with your loved ones to ensure everyone understands your preferences.

Misconceptions

Understanding the New York Living Will form can be challenging. Here are ten common misconceptions that people often have about this important document:

  1. A Living Will is the same as a Last Will and Testament. A Living Will specifically addresses medical treatment preferences, while a Last Will and Testament deals with the distribution of assets after death.
  2. You only need a Living Will if you are elderly. Anyone over the age of 18 can benefit from a Living Will, regardless of their health status or age.
  3. A Living Will can only be created with a lawyer. While legal advice can be helpful, individuals can prepare a Living Will on their own using state-approved forms.
  4. Your Living Will is only valid in New York. While it is designed for New York, many states recognize Living Wills, but it's important to check local laws if you move.
  5. A Living Will can be changed only through a lawyer. You can modify or revoke your Living Will at any time without needing a lawyer, as long as you follow the proper procedures.
  6. Your family will always know your wishes. It’s crucial to discuss your Living Will with your loved ones to ensure they understand your preferences.
  7. It primarily focuses on end-of-life care and may not address every possible medical scenario.
  8. You cannot have both a Living Will and a Health Care Proxy. You can have both documents; a Health Care Proxy allows someone to make decisions on your behalf.
  9. It is useful for anyone who wants to outline their medical treatment preferences in case they cannot communicate.
  10. It should be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect any changes in your wishes or health status.

Being informed about these misconceptions can help you make better decisions regarding your medical preferences and ensure your wishes are respected.

Documents used along the form

A New York Living Will is an essential document for expressing your healthcare preferences in case you become unable to communicate your wishes. However, it is often used in conjunction with other important forms and documents to ensure that your healthcare decisions are honored. Here are some key documents that complement a Living Will:

  • Health Care Proxy: This document allows you to appoint someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. It is crucial for ensuring that your healthcare provider understands who has the authority to make choices for you.
  • Hold Harmless Agreement: This legal document safeguards one party from liability for risks associated with a specific event, thereby helping individuals navigate potential legal claims. For more information, visit https://nypdfforms.com/hold-harmless-agreement-form.
  • Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care: Similar to a Health Care Proxy, this document grants someone the authority to make healthcare decisions. However, it can also include broader powers beyond just health-related matters.
  • Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order: A DNR order is a specific request that medical personnel not perform CPR if your heart stops or if you stop breathing. This document is typically used in emergency situations and must be signed by a physician.
  • Organ Donation Consent: This document outlines your wishes regarding organ and tissue donation after your death. It can provide clarity and peace of mind for your loved ones during a difficult time.
  • Advance Directive: An advance directive is a broader term that encompasses both Living Wills and Health Care Proxies. It serves as a guide for healthcare providers and family members regarding your treatment preferences.
  • Patient Advocate: This document allows you to designate an advocate who can help navigate the healthcare system on your behalf. They can assist in communicating your wishes and ensuring that your preferences are respected.
  • Medical Records Release Form: This form allows you to authorize the release of your medical records to a designated individual. It ensures that your healthcare proxy or advocate has access to the necessary information to make informed decisions.

These documents work together to provide a comprehensive approach to healthcare decision-making. Ensuring that you have these forms in place can greatly reduce confusion and stress for your loved ones during challenging times.