In an era of rapidly advancing medical treatments, a number of policies, regulations, and treatment protocols involving the care of seriously ill patients have developed in medical centers across Canada that, in many cases, do not align with Jewish law and values.
Unfortunately, some Jewish patients cannot communicate their wishes or values to their treatment provider when they are in this grave state. Without any way of knowing the true wishes of the patient, the hospital and health care providers may make decisions that contradict the dictates of Halacha and violate the patient’s deepest-held values.
One tool in preventing this terrible eventuality is to fill out a “Halachic Power of Attorney.†This document, drafted specifically for Jewish patients, empowers individuals to make their wishes known in advance, and ensures that their values will be respected regardless of their ability to communicate them at the time of treatment.
For this reason, Rabbonim in every community have urged each individual, regardless of age or physical condition, to take a few moments and fill out such a document, which should be kept with your vital documents in case of an emergency.
PLEASE NOTE: While the information and documentation on this website is thought to be accurate on the date it is posted, it is provided on an “as is†basis and without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. Bikur Cholim of Toronto, its agents, employees or contractors will not be liable to you for any loss or damages of any nature arising out of your use of information and documentation provided on this website. Changes may be made to this service and any information or documentation contained herein without prior notice. In particular, The Halachic Power of Attorney on this website is provided as a public service for information purposes only, it is not legal advice and should not be relied upon in such a manner. You should consult a lawyer or Rabbinical adviser to address the specific circumstances of your matter.