Barnes v. Methodist Hospital -- New Strong Evidence for Hospital

Today was the second hearing in the Minneapolis, Minnesota dispute between Lana Barnes and Methodist Hospital over the treatment of Barnes's husband and Methodist's patient, Al Barnes.

Jeremy Olson reports that today's testimony revealed Al has an additional health care directive saying that he did not want a feeding tube or other extraordinary measures if he were in a terminal condition.  That advance directive states:  “If at such times there is no reasonable expectation of my recovery from extreme physical or mental disability, I direct that I be allowed to die and not be kept alive by ventilators, artificial means or ‘heroic measures.’”  Even though Barnes has been in the hospital's care for more than a month, Methodist did not have that document.  

In addition to the document, James Barnes, Al's son from a prior marriage, said that he and his father had discussed end-of-life scenarios.  “We’ve had conversations (where he said), ‘I do not want to live on a machine, that’s not living,’” James Barnes testified. “I believe Lana is doing what she believes is right, but it is not my father’s wishes.”  (Fox News) 

This new evidence seems to substantially strengthen the hospital's already good case.  Pursuant to Judge Maus’ order in January, Al is already under the temporary guardianship of a professional guardian service.  That arrangement may soon become permanent.