Advanced Health Care Directives: What Are They and Why Should Everyone Have One?

When it comes to important medical decisions, you never want to be in the dark. The unfortunate reality is that at some point we will all likely be in a scenario when we are unable to make decisions on our own regarding our own care. However, this does not mean that you can’t be in control of the situation! Read on to learn how an advanced health care directive can help you remain in control even in the most unpredictable situations.

What is an Advance Health Care Directive?

An advanced health care directive is a set of instructions for your loved one and doctors to follow in the event that you become unable to share your wishes for care. While most people associate this document with your final wishes for end-of-life care, the directive actually can play a large role in your medical care even if you aren’t dying.

There are typically 2 parts to an advanced care directive:

1. Establishing Your Living Will - This element of the directive will spell out what type of care you’re willing to receive and for how long. It can also outline what spiritual support you’d like to receive.
   
   
2. Designating a Medical Power of Attorney - In the event that something happens that isn’t explicitly outlined in your advanced care directive, someone will need to make the decision on your behalf. You should choose this person very carefully, and you’ll want to make sure they can make important decisions under pressure that match your values and wishes.
   
   

Why Do I Need an Advanced Care Directive?

While these medical documents are not required, it is in your best interest to take some time to create an advanced care directive. Here are a few reasons why:

• Ensure Your Wishes are Followed - Creating an advanced directive is the best way to make sure you’re always in control of your medical decisions. Don’t worry, your advanced care directive will only be considered when you are incapacitated and unable to make decisions. If you are conscious and lucid, a doctor will always follow your verbal instructions first.
  
  
• Be Prepared in Case of Emergency - Emergencies happen, and you may not have had a chance to share your wishes with loved ones in advance. By creating an advanced health care directive you are outlining what steps you’d like doctors to take in even the most unexpected circumstances.
  
  
• Give Your Loved Ones Peace of Mind - Making important medical decisions for someone else can be incredibly stressful and lead to guilt. By creating a clear set of instructions you’re taking the guesswork out of the situation so that your loved ones don’t have to worry if they’re doing the right thing.
  
  

You may be asking yourself, what happens if I choose not to create an advanced health care directive before I need one? Don’t worry, you’ll still receive care, but it will be up to the doctor or a loved one to act on your behalf based on their best judgment.

Wrapping Up

We hope this post has been enlightening and opened your eyes to the reasons why you should consider an advanced health care directive for yourself or a loved one. Check back next month for another post about how to get the conversation started surrounding this important medical document and what steps need to be taken.