What is an Advance Directive?

An Advance Directive is a legal document that allows an individual to outline their preferences for medical treatment in the event that they are unable to communicate their wishes due to illness or incapacity. This document is crucial in ensuring that healthcare providers respect the individual's desires regarding life-sustaining treatment, pain management, and other medical interventions.

Advance Directives can include specific instructions about the kinds of treatments a person wants or does not want, as well as appointing a healthcare proxy to make decisions on their behalf if necessary. This empowerment is vital for individuals who wish to have control over their medical care and decision-making, tailored to their values and beliefs.

While the other options reference various aspects of healthcare documentation and protocols, only the advance directive focuses specifically on a patient’s personal medical treatment choices, making it a key component of patient-centered care.