Advance Healthcare Directives

A healthcare directive is a written document that describes the kinds of healthcare you would or would not want if you were unable to decide, and it allows you to name a person (“agent”) to make medical decisions for you.

You must be at least 18 years old to use a healthcare directive. Your healthcare provider or agent will be guided by the document's directions if you are unable to make medical decisions for yourself.

If you do not have a healthcare directive, and can’t make your own healthcare choices, your healthcare provider probably will talk to your family about what treatment is best for you. If there is disagreement, someone may seek appointment of a guardian or conservator. If this happens, you have no control over who will be named, and you can’t be sure your healthcare wishes will be followed.