What is an Advance Directive?

An advance directive is a legal document that allows you to decide what you want to happen in case there is a medical emergency or if you get sick. It gives healthcare providers specific instructions on what you want while you are being treated. Examples include being able to tell your doctor whether you want to be placed on life support, whether you want CPR, whether you want medicine for pain relief, or whether you want life-prolonging treatments. You can also name a healthcare agent who can speak for you about what medical care you want. This person can be your family member or someone else. It is important to pick someone that you trust as these are serious decisions. It is also important to sit down with your healthcare agent and tell them your wishes to prevent any misunderstandings about your care.

If you have any questions, please call us at (443) 741-2567 and we would be happy to answer all of your questions.