An advance directive
An advance directive is a legal form that helps your doctors and family members understand your wishes about healthcare. It can help them decide about treatments if you are too ill to decide for yourself. It is a good idea to have one, because it helps people when you cannot speak for yourself. You do not need to have one. Your advance directive is used only when you are not able to make decisions yourself.
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You name or appoint the person you want to speak for you
This form lets you name the person you trust to make healthcare decisions if you cannot make them yourself—your “healthcare agent.” You can choose any adult to be your agent. It’s best to choose someone you trust, who knows you well, who knows your values, and who is willing to serve as your agent. Your healthcare agent should try to respect your wishes, but sometimes your agent may have to interpret your wishes. You can say how closely you want your wishes to be followed. If you do not choose an agent, [in state with surrogate consent law] your doctor will choose someone to make decisions for you in the following order: legal guardian (if you have one), spouse, adult child, parent, sibling, grandparent, grandchild, or a close friend.
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To complete an advance directive
Fill out any valid state advance directive form, which will become part of your medical record. Talk to a healthcare professional, such as a social worker or physician, at your healthcare facility. (Or talk to your spiritual advisor or attorney if completing an outside form.)
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To change my advance directive
You may change or cancel your advance directive at any time. You can also make it unchangeable if you want. If you change it, be sure to tell your healthcare team and family and have them put it in your health record.
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