This Washington Advance Health Care Directive is made up two documents, a Power of Attorney for Health Care and a Living Will. It is a wise choice for anyone to have these documents in place. If the unexpected happens, these documents will not only give you, but your loved ones peace of mind knowing that your wishes are being carried out. If you are already sick or disabled, these documents are all the more important, as they will not only give your loved ones guidance, but your physicians as well.

A Power of Attorney for Health Care is extremely important should you be unable to make decisions for yourself due to illness or incapacity. This form allows a person (also known at the "principal") to designate a trusted individual (family member or friend) as their "attorney in fact" (or "health care agent") to make critical health care decisions on their behalf. The Principal can give specific instructions regarding their health care, opt to have their organs donated if they wish, and may designate a specific physician to have primary responsibility over their health care.

A Living Will is a document that will specify your exact wishes with regard to your health care should you become incapacitated. This document will outline when and if you want life prolonging treatments. It is important to note that these documents do not go into effect until you are actually incapacitated. Until that time they may be amended or cancel the document verbally should you change your mind on any provision.

These Forms include the Following Key Provisions:

• Living Will: This document will identify the care you would like to have if you become incapacitated or injured and are unable to speak for yourself. It includes specifics including the use of life saving measures, and whether to use them or not;
• Life Sustaining Options: You will have the opportunity to specifically choose if you want food and hydration, and artificial life support.
• Representative: You will appoint a specific person, (usually a close family member or friend), to act as your representative. This person will speak for you and if need be make decisions on your behalf;
• Your Unique Wishes: You will be able to identify what specific types of life saving measures you would like taken, and you will be able to add any extra instructions not otherwise mentioned.

This attorney prepared packet contains:

1. Information and Instructions for Alabama Advance Directive for Health Care (Power of Attorney for Health Care and Living Will);
2. Washington Advance Directive for Health Care (Power of Attorney for Health Care and Living Will) Form.

Law Compliance: This form complies with the laws of Washington.