Most people do not want to be on life support. Most people do not want extraordinary measures taken when they are at the end stages of life, and are in a terminal illness. Most people have stated in their living wills they do not want to be on a ventilator or use other artificial means of support. However, that was pre-Covid 19.
On NBC10, I was given the opportunity to speak about what has changed. Covid has changed the conversation. Today, ventilators are key for providing oxygen and helping to keep people alive till they can get better. But there are only so many ventilators available. With the restrictions on visitors, patients are by themselves in the hospital. Their family members cannot visit. Doctors must contact them via phone or video conference.
You may have noticed a recurring theme in my blog posts – communication, those conversations most needed. This is one of those conversations. Speak with your health care agent (the person you elect in your Health Care Power of Attorney), so that they know your wishes and can speak for you. This also takes the burden off of your family, they will know what you want to do.
If you have any questions, or would like more information on how to update your living will or nominate a health care agent to represent you, please contact me at esaulino@saulinolaw.com or click here.
Saulino Law 