What are Advance Directives?

Advance directives are written instructions regarding a patient's healthcare preferences that take effect when the individual is unable to communicate their wishes due to illness or incapacity. These documents, which include living wills and durable powers of attorney for healthcare, allow individuals to express their desires concerning medical treatment, end-of-life care, and the appointment of a healthcare proxy who can make decisions on their behalf.

This legal mechanism ensures that patients’ choices are honored, providing clarity for healthcare providers and loved ones during critical times when decisions must be made. The specificity of written documentation helps avoid ambiguity that may arise from informal communications, ensuring that the healthcare received aligns with the patient's personal values and wishes.