What the Sample Form Covers
The sample living will in A.R.S. 36-3262 is not the only form you can use, but it gives a clear picture of the decisions involved. The form presents five numbered options, and you initial the ones that match your wishes. You can combine options 1 through 4, but if you choose option 5, the others do not apply.
Any writing that meets the requirements of this article may be used to create a living will. A person may write and use a living will without writing a health care power of attorney or may attach a living will to the person's health care power of attorney.
A.R.S. § 36-3262The first option covers terminal conditions and states that you do not want life-sustaining treatment beyond comfort care. The second option goes further, addressing terminal conditions, irreversible coma, and persistent vegetative states, with specific choices about CPR, artificial nutrition, and hospital transport. The third option addresses pregnancy. The fourth says you want full medical care until your doctors conclude the condition is terminal or irreversible. The fifth requests that your life be prolonged to the greatest extent possible.
Flexibility Is Built Into the Law
Arizona intentionally made the living will flexible. You can use the state's sample form, modify it, or write your own document entirely. The statute also allows you to attach a living will to your healthcare power of attorney, so both documents work together. If you have a healthcare power of attorney, your agent must make decisions that are consistent with the wishes you expressed in your living will.
Many people find it helpful to discuss their choices with family members and their healthcare agent before completing the form. A living will is not about giving up on treatment. It is about making your preferences clear while you are able to express them, so that the people who care about you are not left guessing.
