§ 23-4.10-1 - Purpose. - Rhode Island Statutes

SECTION 23-4.10-1

   § 23-4.10-1  Purpose. – (a) The legislature finds that adult persons have the fundamental right tocontrol the decisions relating to the rendering of their own medical care.

   (b) In order that the rights of patients may be respectedeven after they are no longer able to participate actively in decisions aboutthemselves, the legislature declares that the laws of the state shall recognizethe right of an adult person to make a written durable power of attorney whichmight include instructing his or her physician to withhold or withdrawlife-sustaining procedures in the event of a terminal condition.