Physicians are ultimately responsible for the health care decisions made in the course of a patient's treatment. Physicians are not required to follow the directives of a Living Will. Often times this is because proper patient care or ethical obligations override the Living Will. Other times, the physician's personal or religious beliefs override the Living Will. In any case, the physician must tell the patient about any conflicts with the Living Will as soon as the patient provides a copy of the Living Will to the physician. If the physician cannot comply with the patient's Living Will, and the patient is not willing modify the Living Will, the physician must transfer the patient to the care of another physician.
Remember that without a Living Will, doctors have no way of knowing your wishes. Create your Living Will with Rocket Lawyer today. If you have questions, Consult a Legal Pro.
Please note: This page offers general legal information, not but not legal advice tailored for your specific legal situation. Rocket Lawyer Incorporated isn't a law firm or a substitute for one. For further information on this topic, you can Ask a Legal Pro.