The recent controversy surrounding end of life care brought the issue of living wills into the spotlight across the country.  Under Maine law, any spoken or written instructions about the healthcare you want in the future is called an advance directive, or may sometimes be referred to as a living

will.

Any adult resident of Maine may complete an advance directive, but it is not required.  By completing and signing and advance directive, your family and your healthcare provider will know your wishes when it comes to the kinds of treatment you want or don't want when you become too sick to make your choices known.  If you do not have an advance directive in place, your doctor will consult with your relatives, or others close to you, to make decisions on your behalf.

Once completed, your advance directive becomes part of your permanent medical record.  If you wish to make changes or revoke your advance directive, you may do so at anytime.  Should the need arise, your advance directive will be available to guide your healthcare provider in carrying out your medical wishes.

Hospitals are required to make information available on advance directives.  Charles A. Dean Memorial Hospital & Nursing Home has informational packets available that will help you understand your rights as a patient and how to make your choices known. These packets are available at the registration office or online by selecting the link below.

Click here to download Maine Living Will

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