Revision: HCFA-PM-91-9 (MB) Attachment 4.34-A
October 1991 Page 1 of 3
STATE PLAN UNDER TITLE XIX OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY ACT
State of VIRGINIA
REQUIREMENTS FOR ADVANCE DIRECTIVES UNDER STATE PLANS FOR
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
The following is a written description of the law of the State (whether statutory or as recognized by the
courts of the State) concerning advance directives. If applicable States should include definitions of
living will, durable power of attorney for health care, durable power of attorney, witness requirements,
special State limitations on living will declarations, proxy designation, process information and State
forms, and identify whether State law allows for a health care provider or agent of the provider to object
to the implementation of advance directives on the basis of conscience.
§1.0 All specified providers, receiving funds under this Plan, shall maintain written policies,
procedures, and materials concerning advance directives to ensure compliance with the law.
All providers must:
A. give written information to all adults (as defined by the Code of Virginia §54.1-2981 et
seq., receiving medical care concerning their rights under state law to:
1. make decisions concerning their medical care,
2. accept or refuse medical or surgical treatment, and
3. formulate advance directives, e.g., living wills or durable powers of attorney for
health care.
B. provide written information to all adults on their policies concerning implementation of
these rights;
C. document in the individual's medical record whether he has executed an advance directive;
D. not condition providing care or otherwise discriminate against an individual based on
whether he has executed an advance directive;
E. ensure compliance with the requirements of state law concerning advance directives; and
F. provide for educating staff and the community on advance directives.