Advance Directives

The state of New Jersey recognizes and encourages residents to complete an Advanced Directive form. The right of a competent individual to accept or refuse medical treatment is a fundamental right protected by law.

In the event that you are no longer capable of making decisions for yourself-thus you become incompetent-a document called Advanced Directive can protect your wishes and decisions. The document has two parts:

1. A living will which puts your decisions about treatment into writing.
2. Naming a healthcare representative whom you would like to make medical healthcare decisions for you.

Most people choose a family member or loved one to serve as their healthcare representative. You may choose either or both options of the Advanced Directive

Bioethics Committee

Southern Ocean County Hospital maintains a multi-disciplinary Bioethics Committee that considers biomedical and ethical issues at the Hospital and helps to shape the Hospital's policies toward bioethics, ethics and advanced directives.

The Committee also plays an active role in resolving conflicts concerning a patient's decision-making capacity and interpretation of advanced directives, and provides a forum for patients, and their families and Hospital staff to discuss ethical concerns regarding healthcare and participate in healthcare decisions that require input from a Bioethics Committee.

Edward Niewiadomski, MD, Vice President of Medical Affairs, is Chairman of the Hospital's Bioethics Committee and can be reached at 609-978-8913.

Questions & Answers

Do I need an Advanced Directive?

If you are concerned about the medical treatment you may receive if you are unable to make decisions for yourself, then you should complete an Advanced Directive. Many organizations, such as Southern Ocean County Hospital, provide sample Advance Directives that you can use. You also have the choice to make your own. You must, however, state that you are over 18 years old, are not being forced to prepare the document, and that you are of sound mind. Your signature must be witnessed and dated by two people, or notarized.

When will my Advanced Directive be used?

Only when you can no longer make decisions for yourself and you are in a healthcare facility.

What do I do with my Advanced Directive?

Make copies. Give one to your family, a neighbor, pastor or physician. Southern Ocean County Hospital's Medical Records Department will also keep a copy and place it on your medical record, even if you have never been a patient at SOCH before.

I still have questions, where can I get help?

Call The Family Resource Center at 609-978-3559, or the Admissions Office at 609-978-8900, ext. 2994.
They can supply you with the necessary forms.

• Download Sample PDF