advanced health care directive

This form is a power of attorney for medical decisions. The Advance Health Care Directive will accomplish the following:

• Name an agent to make decisions for the principal in the event that the principal is unable to make such medical decisions;
• Give the agent guidance when making decisions;
• Direct or opt out of organ donation;
• Tell the agent your desires regarding termination of life support; and
• Give the agent the power to arrange for disposition of remains.

Your agent may make all health care decisions that may have to be made unless the form you sign limits the authority of your agent. If you choose not to limit the authority of your agent, your agent will have the right to:

By law your agent may not commit you to a locked facility, consent to convulsive treatment or psychosurgery, or consent to abortion. These decisions will require a court order.

Who should be your agent? Any individual over the age of eighteen may act as an agent. However, some choices are better than others. The best choice is someone who can follow the wishes of the principal without hesitation and in spite of the agent’s own desires and belief systems. Your health care professional cannot act as an agent.