Refusing Medical Treatment - Advising & Drafting Advance Decisions

Introduction

5% of the population have made an advance decision to refuse medical treatment (sometimes misleadingly called a 'living will'), yet the majority of those are self-drafted without legal advice. This runs the risk that the patient has not fully considered the circumstances they want it to apply, it fails to comply with the Mental Capacity Act 2005, it conflicts with their lasting power of attorney and it is not used when they want it to.

Research indicates that the majority of the population wishes to have more control over their end of life, yet many do not put their thoughts into action. This virtual classroom seminar is suitable for private client lawyers and includes a review of case law and how to draft an advance decision for clients, and provides an opportunity to meet the legal needs of their clients.

What You Will Learn

This live and interactive course will cover the following:

• Options for advance planning
• What is an advance decision and how does it differ from a health and welfare lasting power?
• What if you want treatment to be given?
• Drafting an advance decision
• Special rules when the refusal is for life sustaining treatment
• Avoiding conflict with a health and welfare lasting power
• Ensuring clinicians are aware of an advance decision
• When is an advance decision valid and applicable?
• What if the advance decision is not valid and applicable?

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.