Making an Advance Directive

What happens when an individual becomes too ill to make his or her own medical decisions? Someone must decide when to begin or not begin treatment, or when to stop it. Family members and doctors usually make decisions when the patient cannot.Sometimes they are not sure what is best. Sometimes they disagree. That's when it would be good to know what the patient would have wanted and whom the patient would have wanted to make these decisions. That's why it will help your family, close friends and physicians if you have completed an Advance Health Care Directive. If you have made your wishes clear, they are more likely to be followed.

What is an Advance Directive?

An Advance Health Care Directive is a verbal or written instruction that tells your family and health care team what you want done in case you have a serious injury or illness and are not able to speak for yourself.

For more information on Advance Directive, go to the Biller Resource Center to pick up the educational booklet "Making an Advance Directive", or ask to speak to a clinical Social Worker.