An Advance Directive, also known as Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care or Living Will, is a form that you complete to let your medical team know what kind of medical treatment you would want should you become very sick and are not able to speak for yourself. You also name a person, your Patient Advocate, to make decisions on your behalf. The Advance Directive serves as a guide in the event an illness makes you unable to communicate your decisions.

Why should I have an Advance Directive?
You have a legal and moral right to decide what kind of medical treatment you want and don't want when you are very sick and your death may be expected. It may be hard to think about medical treatment options when you are feeling well. But it may be a lot harder to think clearly during a time of crisis. Even worse, you may find yourself unable to communicate your choices because of severe illness or injury. If you take the time now to consider the kind of medical treatment you want, it may give you peace of mind. People often don't realize you also have the right to refuse medical treatment at any time.

You have additional rights as patients described in Section 20201 of the Public Health Code, 1978 PA 368, and MCCI 333.20201.

Who should complete an Advance Directive?
Anyone 18 years or older can complete an Advance Directive. As you get older, it is a good time to consider your future medical treatment options. If you have serious medical problems, it is especially important to do so. This allows you to be in control of your health care.

When should I complete an Advance Directive?
You can complete the forms at any time and when you are clear about the type of medical care you want. Typically, you should complete the Advance Directive forms when you are feeling well, able to think clearly, and not experiencing poor health. Your health care provider can answer your questions. These forms should be reviewed on a yearly basis with your health care provider. Advance Directives also can be reviewed at anytime, especially if you are experiencing a change in your health. You also will be asked if you have an Advance Directive when you are admitted to the hospital. You can complete Advance Directive forms at that time if you have not already completed one.

How do I complete an Advance Directive?
The Decisions for Medical Treatment form allows you to record your decision regarding medical treatment options. When considering the following options, it may be helpful to review your personal beliefs and what makes your life worth living. People consider the positives and negatives of medical treatment in very personal ways. This explains why some people choose different types of treatment. Questions to ask yourself are: How much would I be willing to live with if my chance of regaining my current health was low? What if the chances were high? What physical discomforts and limitations can I live with?

To determine your beliefs and values, complete the questions on the form What Makes Your Life Worth Living. The questions provide situations to consider if your health should change from how it is now. It also may help guide you in deciding what health situations are acceptable to you. It may help you to choose the type of medical treatments you may want or don't want in the future.