Cayuga Health

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Cayuga Medical Center: Advance Directives

Health Care Proxy. MOLST. Living Will.

Know your choices. Share your wishes.

In New York State there are currently three types of Advance Directives:

  • A Health Care Proxy form should be completed by all adults (18 and older). This document allows a person to name a health care agent and an alternate agent that can speak for them in the event they cannot speak for themselves.

  • The Living Will expands on the Health Care Proxy and provides further details about the person’s wishes regarding life-sustaining measures in the event that he or she becomes incapacitated.
  • The Medical Orders for Life Sustaining Treatments (MOLST) form is recommended for patients with serious health conditions. The form is especially relevant for persons who wish to avoid or receive specific life-sustaining treatments, who reside in long- term care facilities, or who have a life expectancy of one year of less. It allows the patient to state their wishes regarding CPR and other treatments such as mechanical ventilation and artificial nutrition. MOLST is a medical order, printed on bright pink paper, that travels with the person and is valid across all care settings. MOLST orders apply immediately on completion, not just when the person loses decision-making capacity.

For further information about MOLST and advance care planning, please visit health.state.ny.us and compassionandsupport.org

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what our patients are saying

“I have been a Hemo dialysis patient for almost Five years. Prior to dialysis and during dialysis I have had several trips to the ER, due to other health issues & was admitted to CMC more than a few times. Each and every time I’ve been there, whether in patient or out, I have been treated with respect, professionalism, and efficiency. I give this hospital 2 thumbs up!! Thank you CMC for taking care of me all these years!!”

Monique, Cayuga Cancer Center

“I have had many occasions visiting CMC for myself and family. We have never had a bad experience there at all. Last October I had surgery and the nurses were amazing especially my night nurse. Thank you to all CMC staff for doing what you do every day with a smile.”

Karen, Surgical Services

“I have to say the last couple visits that I’ve had here have been wonderful. About a month ago I had an EGD and the staff were amazing! Explained everything in detail and made me feel at ease. I was very nervous and the nurse I had was very comforting. Tonight we had to take my son to the emergency room and they were awesome with him! We got right in. “

Samantha, Emergency Department

“The staff and accommodations at Cayuga Birthplace are amazing!!! This is what it I imagine it would feel like to be a celebrity getting VIP treatment. I wish I could stay longer – even the food options are 5 Star! The amenities are great. Everything is clean and designed beautifully. Not a single complaint, only praises!”

Alina, Cayuga Birth Place
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