Living wills, also called directive to physicians, health care declaration, or medical directive, describe the type of care you want to receive as you near the end of your life in specific circumstances. In some states it only goes into effect only when your doctor certifies your health condition and that you are no longer capable of making decisions (incapacitated). It is narrow in scope and works best as a guide for your physicians and the person you have legally named to make health care decisions on your behalf using a health care proxy.