United States: New York Hospitals Approve “Medical Directive Tattoos” for Emergencies

Hospitals in New York City have officially begun recognizing tattoos as legal medical directives in emergencies.
Patients can now tattoo clear instructions such as “Do Not Resuscitate (DNR),” “Allergic to Penicillin,” or even blood types on their chests, wrists, or arms.
Doctors argue this reduces confusion during emergencies when seconds matter. However, ethicists warn about tattoos done years earlier that may no longer reflect a patient’s wishes.