A Guide For Living Wills

23. Does my doctor have to carry out my wishes as stated in my living will?

If your medical treatment preferences are made clear then your doctor is legally obligated to implement your wishes, unless doing this would violate his or her conscience or accepted medical practice. If your doctor is unwilling to honor your wishes he or she must assist in transferring you to the care of another doctor.

24. Can I revoke my living will at any time?

Yes. You can revoke your living will at any time, regardless of your physical or mental condition. This can be done in writing, orally, or by any action which indicates that you no longer want the living will to be valid.

25. Who should have copies of my living will?

A copy should be given to the person that you have named as your health care representative, as well as to your family, your doctor and others who are important to you. If you enter a hospital, nursing home, or a hospice then a copy of your living will should be provided so that it can be made part of your medical records.

26. Can I be required to have a living will as a condition of my insurance coverage?

No. You can't be required to complete a living will as a condition for obtaining a life or health insurance policy. Also, having or not having an advance directive has no effect on your current health or life insurance coverage, or health benefits.

27. Can I use my living will to make an organ donation upon my death?

Yes. Your living will should state your wishes regarding organ donation. For further information regarding organ donations you should contact either an organ procurement agency or your local hospital.

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