Advance Directives

What is an advance directive?

An advance directive tells doctors what type of care you do and don’t want for yourself. This way, if you can’t speak for yourself due to an accident or illness, you’ll still get the medical attention and care that you need and want. All adults should have an advance directive, no matter what their health condition is.

Your doctor may ask if you have an advance directive. Even if you don’t have one, you’ll get medical care. You have the right to make your own medical decisions and can refuse care.

If you have an advance directive:

  • Keep one copy for yourself
  • Give a copy to the person you give medical power of attorney to
  • Give a copy to each one of your doctors
  • Take a copy with you if you have to go to the hospital or the emergency room
  • Keep a copy in your car if you have one

Your doctor can help answer your questions. We’ll help you find a provider who supports your wishes. You can file a complaint if a doctor doesn’t follow your advance directive.

 

Proxy directives

This type of advance directive gives power of attorney for health care. This is in the event you’re not able to make your own decisions. It may be temporary, in the case of an accident. Or it may be permanent, in the case of a health condition.

The first step is choosing a health care representative to make health care decisions for you. This person will:

  • Make the same decisions you would in the same situation
  • Base their decision on what they think is in your best interest if they aren’t able to determine what you would want in the same situation

 

Instruction directives

This type of advance directive is also known as a “living will.” It guides your doctor and family if you’re not able to make your own health care decisions. It covers situations when you would or wouldn’t want to get treatment that would keep you alive.

You can include a statement about your:

  • Beliefs
  • Values
  • Wishes for general care
  • Wishes for treatment

 

Need more help?

Call us at 1-855-463-0933 (TTY: 711). We’re here 8 AM to 8 PM, seven days a week. Or check the state of Virginia website to learn more about advance directives.