Advance Health Directives
You have the right to make all decisions about the health care you receive.
Establish Your Health Care Preferences
If you don't want certain treatments, you have the right to tell your doctor, either orally or in writing, you do not want them.
Communicating Your Wishes
Most patients can express their wishes to their doctor, but some who are badly injured, unconscious or very ill cannot. You can express your health care preferences in advance, in case you become unable to speak effectively for yourself.
What are Advanced Directives?
Advanced health directives let care providers know your medical preferences. They only go into effect if you're unable to communicate.
Health Care Power of Attorney
If you want someone to be able to make medical decisions on your behalf, you can sign a health care power of attorney. You do not need a witness at the document signing.
Living Will
If you want to state your preferences for life-sustaining procedures, you can sign a living will (also known as “Declaration of a Desire for a Natural Death”). A state representative must be present when signing this document to make it official.
Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order
If you want to refuse CPR or other resuscitation measures, you can ask your doctor to put in a DNR order. This prevents health care professionals from attempting to restart your heart or breathing if it stops naturally.
Advance Directive Forms
Health Care Power of Attorney
DNR Order
Questions? Concerns?
Guest Services can provide more information.