all about living wills

It should be prepared early as possible for everyone ages 18 and older.

Your living will takes effect when there is little or no chance of recovery and you can no longer communicate your medical care choices. In the state of Florida two physicians, (your physician that is providing care and another consulting physician) must determine your condition will not improve, before they can withhold or withdraw life prolonging medical procedures. Your requests to withhold treatments in your living will do not apply when there is reasonable chance of cure or improvement.

Your living will should be part of your medical record. It should be readily available to your doctors and other healthcare providers. It is important to include your healthcare surrogate and your loved ones in your planning and provide them with a copy of your living will. We recommend sharing your living will with anyone who would be at your bedside if you were ever very sick. Informing loved ones before a medical crisis can reduce conflict, stress and guilt.

It is a good idea to review your living will every few years to make sure it remains current with your wishes. You may also want to check it after major life changes. Consider the five "D's" - a death, diagnosis, divorce, decline and a decade. It is wise to discuss your plan with your primary doctor every few years or whenever you have questions.