(a) The General Assembly finds that modern medical technology has made possible the artificial prolongation of human life.

(b) The General Assembly further finds that, in the interest of protecting individual autonomy, such prolongation of life for persons with a terminal condition, a coma, or a persistent vegetative state may cause loss of patient dignity and unnecessary pain and suffering, while providing nothing medically necessary or beneficial to the patient.

(c) The General Assembly further finds that there exists considerable uncertainty in the medical and legal professions as to the legality of terminating the use of life-sustaining procedures in certain situations.

(d) In recognition of the dignity and privacy which patients have a right to expect, the General Assembly declares that the laws of the State of Georgia shall recognize the right of a competent adult person to make a written directive, known as a living will, instructing his physician to withhold or withdraw life-sustaining procedures in the event of a terminal condition, a coma, or a persistent vegetative state.