Letter to All Bodies of Elders, 2000: List of members of the HLC
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HOSPITAL INFORMATION SERVICES 25 COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, BROOKLYN, NEW YORK 11201-2483, U.S.A.
PHONE (718) 625-3600
FAX (718) 797-1294
Dear Brothers:
As illustrated by the January 8,2000, issue of Awake!, an increasing number of physicians are performing bloodless medicine and surgery. In fact, through the diligent efforts of the Hospital Liaison Committees (HLCs), there are now about 28,000 cooperative doctors in the United States. Therefore, it is sensible for those in need of surgery or serious medical attention, especially older ones, children, and pregnant sisters, to contact the HLC to locate cooperative physicians/hospitals. Enclosed is an updated list of members of the HLC to which your congregation is assigned. All elders should have a copy of the list and may wish to make several copies of it, keeping one at home, one at work, and one in their briefcase. As a reminder, please do not make copies of this list for publishers or post it on the information board or read it to the congregation.
In most instances, elders will contact the HLC on behalf of a publisher and as shepherds remain involved in caring for his medical needs. However, in certain circumstances, if a publisher in good standing needs such assistance, an elder may provide the name(s) and telephone number(s) of one or two members so the publisher may contact the HLC directly. Please see the reverse side of this letter for additional information to consider before contacting the HLC. (Feel free to make a copy of this sheet for each elder.) Although an elder should not give disfellowshipped individuals nor non-Witness family members the names and telephone numbers of the HLC, indirect assistance can, at times, be provided through family members. If faced with such a situation, the elder should contact the committee. After reviewing the circumstances, the HLC will determine what support is appropriate and give pertinent instructions and information.
Also, please endeavor to assist more publishers to have a properly filled out Advance Medical Directive/Release card and the health-care durable power of attorney (DPA) form. The January 2000 issue of Our Kingdom Ministry states: "For the best legal protection, both documents should be filled out." These documents speak for the individual when he is unable to speak for himself. Most confrontations can be avoided when both documents are executed properly. If you have questions about the DPA form after reviewing the question-and-answer guide that accompanies it, you may wish to contact your local HLC for assistance. With this letter we send our warm Christian love.
Your brothers,
Nathaniel B. V. Society OF NEW YORK, INC.
Enclosure
Assignment: Detroit, MI Hospital Liaison Committee
INFORMATION ABOUT THE PATIENT THAT YOU NEED BEFORE CONTACTING THE HLC
The patient's name, age and telephone number.
If the patient is hospitalized, please provide hospital name, room number and patient's telephone number.
The congregation with which the patient or family is associated.
Whether the patient is baptized, an unbaptized publisher, or a Bible student.
Has the patient requested for the HLC to be involved?
Has the patient completed the Advance Medical Directive card? Has the patient completed a health-care proxy form?
How resolute is the patient in his determination to refuse blood transfusions?
If possible, the name(s) of doctor(s) involved. Has the patient discussed his position with the doctor?
The exact medical problem of the patient (need for open-heart surgery, treatment for leukemia, treatment for problems due to premature birth, etc.)
Some specifics on the patient's present medical condition, such as red blood cell count or white blood cell count.
What treatment doctors are now using or recommending.
Telephone number where you can be reached.