The Utah Advance Healthcare Directive Act

So simple, even legislators can do it . . .

In Utah, the legislature has provided, through statute, a form you can use to let people know what to do if you end up in the hospital and you can’t make decisions for yourself. In a time where the need to express your wishes regarding whether or not to be put on a ventilator is so important, you want to make sure you have the right instructions in place.

Utah Code Section 75-2a-117 provides this form. (https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter2A/75-2a-S117.html?v=C75-2a-S117_1800010118000101)

BUT, don’t do it on your own if you don’t have to. Walk through each option with your attorney so they can explain them to you in detail. You want to make informed decisions about something as critical as your healthcare as the global pandemic spreads and medical resources are stretched to their limit. Consulting an attorney during the process is a great way to make sure you understand what it is you are signing and what it means if you end up under a doctor’s care, unable to speak for yourself. If you don’t tell them what to do by having a directive, doctors will make the choice for you. In a directive, you have the opportunity to designate someone as your agent to make decisions for you. You can instruct that agent through the selections you make on the form about the kind of actions you would want taken. You can also choose the level of care you want to receive if you are unable to breathe. The most important thing you get from the form is peace of mind knowing that what you have chosen is what will happen. Call me today. I can go through the form with you for a discounted rate given the tumultuous times we are facing together.

J. Mark Edwards

(801) 808-1885

This blog post is attorney advertising material and does not constitute formal legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.