Official  Living Will Form for New Hampshire

Official Living Will Form for New Hampshire

A New Hampshire Living Will is a legal document that allows individuals to outline their preferences for medical treatment in the event they become unable to communicate their wishes. This form ensures that your healthcare choices are respected, providing guidance to family members and medical professionals during critical times. To take control of your healthcare decisions, consider filling out the Living Will form by clicking the button below.

Fill Out Living Will Here

In the realm of healthcare decision-making, the New Hampshire Living Will form plays a crucial role in guiding medical professionals and loved ones when individuals can no longer communicate their wishes. This legal document allows individuals to express their preferences regarding medical treatment in situations where they may be incapacitated, ensuring that their values and desires are respected. Key aspects of the form include the ability to specify preferences for life-sustaining treatments, such as resuscitation and artificial nutrition, as well as the option to designate a healthcare proxy—someone authorized to make decisions on their behalf. Furthermore, the form emphasizes the importance of clear communication, encouraging individuals to discuss their wishes with family members and healthcare providers. By completing a Living Will, residents of New Hampshire can take proactive steps to ensure that their healthcare choices are honored, providing peace of mind for both themselves and their loved ones during difficult times.

Document Specifics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The New Hampshire Living Will form allows individuals to express their wishes regarding medical treatment in the event they become unable to communicate their preferences.
Governing Law This form is governed by New Hampshire RSA 137-J, which outlines the legal framework for advance directives.
Signature Requirement The form must be signed by the individual and witnessed by two individuals who are not related to the individual or beneficiaries of their estate.
Revocation A Living Will can be revoked at any time, either verbally or in writing, by the individual who created it.
Healthcare Provider Notification It is advisable to provide a copy of the Living Will to healthcare providers to ensure that the individual's wishes are respected.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the New Hampshire Living Will form is an important step in planning for future healthcare decisions. Here are some key takeaways to consider:

  • Understand the Purpose: A Living Will outlines your preferences for medical treatment in case you become unable to communicate your wishes.
  • Eligibility: Any adult resident of New Hampshire can create a Living Will.
  • Clear Instructions: The form should provide clear and specific instructions regarding the types of medical treatments you do or do not want.
  • Signature Requirement: You must sign the Living Will in the presence of two witnesses who are not related to you or beneficiaries of your estate.
  • Revocation: You have the right to revoke or change your Living Will at any time, as long as you are mentally competent.
  • Storage and Accessibility: Keep the original document in a safe place and provide copies to your healthcare providers and family members.
  • Discuss with Loved Ones: It is beneficial to discuss your Living Will with family and friends to ensure they understand your wishes.
  • Legal Assistance: Consider seeking legal advice if you have questions about the form or its implications.
  • Review Periodically: Regularly review your Living Will to ensure it still reflects your current wishes and circumstances.

New Hampshire Living Will Example

New Hampshire Living Will Template

This Living Will is prepared in accordance with New Hampshire laws regarding advance directives. It outlines your wishes regarding medical treatment in the event you become unable to communicate your preferences.

Declaration of Wishes

I, [Your Full Name], a resident of [Your City], New Hampshire, born on [Your Date of Birth], hereby declare this to be my Living Will.

In the event that I am unable to make my own health care decisions due to terminal illness, persistent vegetative state, or similar condition, I wish the following:

  1. If I am diagnosed with a terminal condition, I do not want life-sustaining treatment that would only prolong the process of dying.
  2. If I am in a persistent vegetative state with no reasonable chance of recovery, I do not want life-sustaining treatment.
  3. I wish to receive palliative care to ensure that I am comfortable in my remaining time.
  4. I wish to refuse any treatment that serves only to prolong my life without providing comfort.

Appointment of Health Care Proxy

If I am unable to communicate my wishes, I designate the following person to make medical decisions on my behalf:

Name: [Proxy’s Full Name]

Address: [Proxy’s Address]

Phone Number: [Proxy’s Phone Number]

Signatures

This Living Will expresses my wishes. I understand that it will only take effect in the circumstances specified above.

Signed on this [Day] day of [Month], [Year].

Signature: _______________________

Printed Name: [Your Printed Name]

This document should be witnessed by adult persons who do not stand to benefit from my estate:

  • Witness 1: [Witness 1 Name], Signature: _______________________
  • Witness 2: [Witness 2 Name], Signature: _______________________

Important Facts about New Hampshire Living Will

What is a Living Will in New Hampshire?

A Living Will is a legal document that allows individuals to outline their preferences regarding medical treatment in situations where they are unable to communicate their wishes. In New Hampshire, this document specifically addresses end-of-life care and other medical decisions. It provides guidance to healthcare providers and family members about the types of medical interventions a person wishes to receive or refuse, particularly in cases of terminal illness or incapacitation.

Who should consider creating a Living Will?

Any adult, regardless of age or health status, can benefit from having a Living Will. It is particularly important for individuals with chronic illnesses, those undergoing major medical procedures, or anyone who wants to ensure their healthcare preferences are known and respected. By having a Living Will, individuals can relieve their loved ones from the burden of making difficult decisions during emotional times, ensuring their wishes are honored.

How do I create a Living Will in New Hampshire?

Creating a Living Will in New Hampshire involves a few straightforward steps. First, consider your medical treatment preferences and discuss them with family members or healthcare providers. Next, you can obtain a Living Will form, which is available through various sources, including healthcare facilities and legal websites. After filling out the form, it is important to sign it in the presence of two witnesses or a notary public to ensure its validity. Finally, distribute copies of the completed document to your healthcare providers and family members to ensure everyone is informed of your wishes.

Can I change or revoke my Living Will once it is created?

Yes, individuals have the right to change or revoke their Living Will at any time, as long as they are mentally competent. To make changes, simply create a new Living Will that reflects your updated preferences and ensure that it is properly signed and witnessed. To revoke an existing Living Will, you can destroy the document or provide written notice to your healthcare providers and family members. It is advisable to communicate any changes clearly to avoid confusion regarding your medical wishes.

Documents used along the form

When preparing a New Hampshire Living Will, it’s essential to consider additional documents that complement your wishes regarding medical treatment and end-of-life care. These forms can help ensure that your preferences are respected and understood by your healthcare providers and loved ones. Below are four important documents often used alongside a Living Will.

  • Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare: This document allows you to appoint someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so. It ensures that your medical preferences are followed by a trusted individual.
  • Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order: A DNR order is a medical order that instructs healthcare providers not to perform CPR if your heart stops or you stop breathing. This document is crucial for those who wish to avoid aggressive life-saving measures in specific medical situations.
  • WC-1 Georgia Form: An essential document used to report workplace injuries in Georgia, initiating the claims process for workers seeking compensation. For more information, you can refer to All Georgia Forms.
  • Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): The POLST form translates your healthcare wishes into actionable medical orders. It is especially important for individuals with serious illnesses, as it guides emergency personnel and healthcare providers in respecting your treatment preferences.
  • Advance Directive: An advance directive is a broader term that encompasses both a Living Will and a Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare. It outlines your wishes for medical treatment and designates someone to make decisions for you, ensuring your values and preferences are honored.

Creating a comprehensive plan that includes these documents can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. By clearly communicating your wishes, you help alleviate the burden of decision-making during challenging times. Take the necessary steps to ensure your healthcare preferences are known and respected.

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Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the New Hampshire Living Will form, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure your wishes are accurately represented. Here are seven things to do and not to do:

  • Do clearly state your medical treatment preferences.
  • Do sign and date the form in the presence of witnesses.
  • Do discuss your wishes with family members and your healthcare provider.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form in a safe place.
  • Don't use vague language that could lead to confusion.
  • Don't forget to review and update your Living Will as needed.
  • Don't assume that verbal instructions will be honored; always document your wishes.