Illinois Healthcare Laws
A same-sex partner may, under certain circumstances, make health care decisions for an incapacitated partner as a "close friend" under Illinois law. However, at least six other individuals are granted priority ahead of a partner (guardian, spouse, adult children, parent, etc.) and must be contacted first. § 40/25.An adult may execute a living will, designating another to make health care decisions in the event of incapacitation. The document must be signed by the declarant, or another at the declarant's direction, and witnessed by 2 individuals. § 35/3.
Citation: Health Care Surrogate Act: 755 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. §§ 40/1 to 40/65 and Illinois Living Will Act: 755 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. §§ 35/1 to 35/10
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Last Updated: 5/2/2008