New York Advanced Healthcare Directives: Plan Ahead to Protect Your Wishes

EmergencyNotaryServices.com
Jul 21
3 min read

Updated: Jul 22

Life is unpredictable, but your medical care shouldn’t be. By completing your Advanced Healthcare Directives in New York, you ensure that your preferences for care and treatment are respected—even if you become unable to communicate them yourself.

At EmergencyNotaryServices.com, we provide quick access to free, downloadable AARP forms specific to New York, and we connect you with professional notaries throughout the state to help make the process seamless.

📘 What Are Advanced Healthcare Directives?

Advanced Healthcare Directives are legal documents that allow you to clearly state your medical preferences and assign someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf. These directives become essential during end of life care, serious illness, or any event where you cannot advocate for yourself.

For residents of New York, creating these documents is one of the most important steps in preparing for hospitalization and protecting your health autonomy.

📂 What Documents Are Included in a New York Advanced Healthcare Directive Package?

👤 Health Care Proxy

The Health Care Proxy form allows you to appoint a trusted person—called your health care agent—to make medical decisions if you are unable to do so. This document is critical because New York law does not automatically give that authority to spouses or family members.

✅ In New York, the Health Care Proxy must be signed by two adult witnesses (not notarized).

📝 Living Will

While not required in New York, a Living Will is strongly recommended. It outlines your preferences for life-sustaining treatments, such as:

Mechanical ventilation
Artificial nutrition and hydration
Resuscitation (CPR)
Pain management and palliative care

Your Living Will guides your health care agent and doctors to follow your values regarding end of life care.

🔐 HIPAA Release Authorization

The HIPAA Release Form allows your agent or loved ones to access your medical records. Without this document, privacy laws may prevent your health care agent from making informed decisions.

❌ Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order

A DNR Order in New York must be signed by both you and your physician. It tells emergency responders and hospital staff not to perform CPR or advanced life-saving measures if your heart or breathing stops.

⏰ Why Complete These Forms Now?

Creating your Advanced Healthcare Directives in New York today gives you:

✅ Full control over your medical care
✅ Legal clarity for your healthcare providers
✅ Emotional relief for your family members during difficult times

📥 Click here to download your New York-specific AARP forms – these are 100% free, legally compliant, and easy to complete.

🖋️ Need Help Notarizing? We’ve Got You Covered.

While not all New York forms require notarization, many people choose to notarize their directives to avoid any future confusion. A notarized document often holds stronger legal weight in hospitals and care facilities.

🔎 Explore our Notary Directory to find a trusted notary in your area.🚗 Can’t find one nearby? Request a free quote and we’ll connect you with a mobile or remote notary who can help at your convenience—whether you're at home, in a hospital, or in a care facility.

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✅ Take Control of Your Health Decisions Today

Don’t wait until an emergency to make your healthcare wishes known. At EmergencyNotaryServices.com, we’re here to help you take control—on your terms.

Here’s how to get started: