In most cases, healthcare options, including treatment advantages and disadvantages, are discussed with the physician prior to making a decision. The opportunity for thorough discussion is available and decisions are verbally given to the physician prior to treatment. The ability to communicate directly with the physician and make healthcare decisions is often taken care for granted. Planning ahead will ensure your right to accept or refuse treatment in the event you are physically or mentally unable to make decisions and express your wishes.

Advance directives are the best way for people of all ages to plan in advance for such an unfortunate event. This is a written document which is prepared in advance, giving specific and detailed instructions as to the healthcare procedures that should be followed if you are unable to make decisions for yourself. There are several options available. A proxy directive, also known as durable power of attorney for healthcare, is a written statement naming a specific individual to make health care decisions for you. Instruction directives, also known as a living will, provide written instructions as to the specific treatment you will accept and refuse, as well as how the treatment is to be implemented. Combined directives allow you to provide written instructions regarding medical treatment and name a person who will act as a representative to ensure your instructions are followed.

Regardless of the directives chosen, they should be as detailed as possible and clearly reflect your wishes. The details should include all treatments you refuse, as well as the specific treatment requested. The directives should also include any specific medical conditions which you would prefer or different treatment, such as requesting all possible life sustaining measures or refusing life support for certain conditions. The written documents are legally binding and must be followed by the physician, hospital and other healthcare professionals. In the event an ambulance is called, they are legally required to continue life saving treatment until they arrive at the hospital, regardless of directives.

Once the documents are given to the physicians and it has been determined you are unable to make your own healthcare decisions, the advance directives will be put into place. The medical professionals are legally obligated to follow the healthcare procedures exactly as outlined in the documents. If a representative has been named, the physician must consult with the named person prior to any treatment. When you regain the ability to make decisions, you will be able to resume making decisions for yourself. Since the directives can be changed and updated at any time, it is a good idea to plan ahead now and review the directives frequently to ensure they accurately reflect your wishes.