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In the case of a Health Care Proxy, a trusted loved one will be given the responsibility. However, with an Advance Directive, your decisions regarding medical intervention and end-of-life preferences are clearly stated in a legally binding document rather than a living person.

Advance directives (like a health care proxy and living will) document future care preference and are difficult to interpret in an emergency. Advance directives are for everyone 18 years of age and older. MOLST is a set of medical orders that defines life-sustaining treatment the patient wants to receive or avoid now.

Traditionally, there are two main kinds of advance directives: the living will and the Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare. The state California also allows the use of a POLST (Physician's Orders For Life‑Sustaining Treatment).

Stated simply: A do-not resuscitate order says that if your heart stops beating, or if you stop breathing, you don't want to be resuscitated. An advance directive is more general. You can specify your wishes if you are incapacitated.

Section 5-602 - Procedure for Making Advance Directive; Notice to Physician -- Living Wills. (a) (1) Any competent individual may, at any time, make a written or electronic advance directive regarding the provision of health care to that individual, or the withholding or withdrawal of health care from that individual.

As mentioned above, in Maryland, you should have your POA notarized and witnessed. The notary public can act as one of the two required witnesses.

A living will express your preferences for end of life care so that all medical personnel and family members know your preferences and further empowers your health care agent to act in ance with what you desired, notwithstanding any personal objections from friends or other family members.

Advance Directive Mistakes to Avoid Mistake #1: Forgetting to Sign the Form. Mistake #2: Asking Medical Staff to Witness the Signature. Mistake #3: Using a Healthcare Agent as a Witness. Mistake #4: Listing Two Equal Healthcare Agents. Mistake #5: Not Choosing the Best Agent. Mistake #6: Not Documenting Your Wishes.

In Maryland, a valid will must be (1) in writing, (2) signed, and (3) attested and signed by two credible witnesses. It may be handwritten or typed and any two adults can be witnesses. A will does not require a notary, though a notary can be a witness.