Living will – information & clarification: Dr. Kastner, Salzburg:
The living will offers the opportunity to exercise self-determination in advance. It is a written declaration of intent in the event that you lose your capacity to act.
You can use it to refuse certain medical measures or artificial life-prolonging treatments in the event of an illness or injury that is certain to lead to death.
Types of living wills
1. Considerable living will:
The doctor SHOULD adhere to a remarkable living will! You have the option of drawing up a remarkable living will. You do not need to be informed by a doctor or lawyer. (A medical consultation should nevertheless take place).
2. Binding living will (recommended):
The doctor MUST adhere to a binding living will. In this form, all refused measures must be specifically described. A comprehensive medical explanation must be verifiably provided. Furthermore, you must sign it in front of a lawyer who confirms its accuracy. This type of living will remains binding for 5 years and must then be reconfirmed, otherwise it becomes a valid living will.
You can revoke a living will at any time!
Living will register
If desired, every living will can be registered in the living will register of the Austrian notary’s office and lawyers. In cooperation with the Austrian Red Cross, hospitals throughout Austria have access to the register of living wills.
Worth knowing
Please note that the existence of a living will not only makes it much easier for us doctors to make decisions, but also for relatives, and gives you as a patient the opportunity to end your life with dignity!
Unfortunately, only around 4% of Austrians currently have a living will.
Costs
Creating a living will: € 90,-
Renewal after 5 years: € 50
Patient decree template form
Templates of the Salzburg Patient Representation for a living will:
1. considerable living will: PDF download
2. Binding living will: PDF-Download
Appointment
We are happy to answer any questions you may have.