Advance Directives
Need Advice?
If you would like advice on how to complete your Advance Directive, please talk to your provider.
STARTING THE CONVERSATION THAT MATTERS.
Advance care planning promotes care that is consistent with your goals, values and beliefs. It helps you and your loved ones prepare for the future and it begins with an open conversation. It’s important to think about your wishes and write them down in an Advance Directive to ensure they are protected, in the event that you are no longer able to voice your decisions. We respect your healthcare preferences, and that is why we strive to make advance care planning a routine part of our patient care.
HELPING YOU UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENT FORMS
WHAT IS AN ADVANCE DIRECTIVE?
An Advance Directive is a legal document, allowing you to declare your wishes concerning end-of-life care and medical treatments. If you are unable to make medical decisions for yourself due to terminal illness or permanent unconsciousness, you can appoint someone you trust to be your healthcare agent. An Advance Directive becomes legally valid as soon as you sign it, and it remains in effect until you change it. If you don’t know how to start the conversation about Advance Directives, we can provide you the support and information you need to begin this important process.
WHAT IS A LIVING WILL?
A Living Will is one form of an Advance Directive. You have the right to make decisions about your end-of-life care; therefore, this document specifies your detailed preferences for life-sustaining treatment and must be honored by your doctor. It is advised that you have a thoughtful conversation about your wishes, values and beliefs with loved ones prior to completed a Living Will.
WHAT IS A DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY FOR HEALTHCARE (DPOA)?
A DPOA for healthcare is another form of Advance Directive. Differing from a general Power of Attorney, this document remains in effect even if you become incapacitated. Whoever you designate as your healthcare agent, will be responsible for communicating your end-of-life wishes and ensuring your desires are carried out.
WHAT IS A PHYSICIAN ORDER FOR LIFE-SUSTAINING TREATMENT (POLST)?
A POLST form is recommended for anyone that is seriously ill or frail and its purpose is to provide medical orders to emergency personnel, based on your current medical situation.
Talk to your provider about what’s right for you.