“In this case, the letter expresses a general fear of being allowed to die, but it does not address the specific clinical scenario of ventilator dependence, which the Living Will explicitly covers. Moreover, the letter was written at a time when the patient’s cognitive capacity may already have been diminished, which the court will need to evaluate when determining its validity.
“Ultimately, the court will decide which document more accurately reflects the patient’s authentic, competent wishes. Unfortunately, this case illustrates why designating a healthcare proxy is essential: without one, families are left without clear authority, and clinicians are left navigating conflicting documents and divided relatives.”
(continued)
● “Living Will or Handwritten Plea: Which Directive Prevails?,” Physician’s Weekly, 6/2/26:
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.physiciansweekly.com/post/living-will-or-handwritten-plea-which-directive-prevails
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