Question

when people continue to die without advanced directives,what is the most reasonable for healthcare providers to make?

Answer 1

An advance directive is a legal document that allows you to state your choices for medical treatment before you actually need such care. When you need medical care, certain decisions need to be made involving the kind of care to be given. These decisions may become harder if you become unable to tell your doctor and loved ones what kind of medical care you want. Taking the time to fill out an advance directive also gives you the opportunity to tell healthcare providers what your wishes are regarding your treatment and allows you to name a person to make treatment decisions for you in the event that you are unable to speak for yourself. A signed advance directive will only be followed in the event that you become mentally or physically unable to convey your wishes regarding medical care decisions.

This section contains information about the kinds of advance directives available and when they become effective, what the eligibility requirements are and the exceptions and considerations in making advance directives. Your physician, nurse or the University Health System Patient Satisfaction/Customer Service office can provide information and sample forms. They can also be downloaded below. You also have the option to learn more about advance directives at

A Directive to Physicians becomes effective only when (1) your attending physician certifies that you have a terminal or irreversible condition that requires life-sustaining treatment and which may result in your death within a relatively short time, and (2) you are comatose, incompetent or otherwise unable to communicate.

A person designated by you pursuant to a Medical Power of Attorney is authorized to make medical decisions on your behalf when your attending physician certifies in writing that you lack capacity to make healthcare decisions for yourself.