What Is the Purpose of an Advance Health Directive?

An advance health directive is a legal document that spells out a person's health care preferences in the event that he or she is no longer able to express these wishes.

Contents of an Advance Directive 

In an advance directive, the individual outlines the procedures he or she does and does not want to undergo at the end of his or her life. This can include wishes about resuscitation, diagnostic procedures, surgical procedures, organ donation, and pain management. The advance directive typically also notes whether the person wants to receive hospice and other types of care in a hospital, at home, or in another setting. The document also indicates the person who has been chosen to carry out thes wishes if the individual is unable to do so.

Preparing an Advance Directive

The first step is to discuss one's end-of-life wishes with close family members and healthcare providers, including the person who will be responsible for ensuring that the advance directive is followed. Once a person has made his or her decisions, an experienced attorney can help prepare the necessary advance directive forms.

While everyone has the right to determine his or her health care, it's important to make sure that key people are aware that an advance directive exists. A signed and completed copy should be kept in an easily accessible location and given to responsible family members and health care providers.