Hospital highlights

The term “advance directive” refers to your oral and written instructions about your future medical care in the event you are unable to express your medical wishes. There are two types of advance directives: a health care directive and a durable power of attorney for health care.

A health care directive, commonly referred to as a “living will,” is a legal document specifying your wishes regarding the care you receive at the end of life should you be unable to communicate them. In Washington state, the directive is used only if you have a terminal condition where life-sustaining treatment would only artificially prolong the process of dying; or if you are in an irreversible coma and there is no reasonable hope of recovery.

A durable power of attorney for health care is a legal document allowing you to name a person as your health care agent - someone who is authorized to consent to, stop or refuse most medical treatment for you if a physician determines you cannot make these decisions yourself. Once appointed, your health care agent can speak on your behalf as a health care proxy, appointment of health care agent or a medical power of attorney.

Advance directives are the best possible assurance that decisions regarding your future medical care will reflect your own wishes, in the event that you are unable to voice these wishes. For this reason, every person aged 18 or over should prepare a directive.

You can obtain a copy of these forms from the hospital or your healthcare provider’s office. You may also contact the hospital social services department with any questions you may have.

Debbie Glass, CEO

Whitman Hospital & Medical Center