What an advance directive actually covers

An advance directive is the documents that record your medical wishes in advance — a living will and a medical power of attorney. It is written while you are healthy, so your wishes are known if you cannot speak them.

What it covers

• What treatment you do and do not want
• Who makes decisions if you cannot
• Pain relief and comfort care
• Artificial life support and resuscitation

Why does having one matter?

Without an advance directive, family members may have to guess what you wanted, and argue about it at the worst possible moment. Written down, your wishes are known, and the person you trust has the authority to carry them out.

The advance directive pack on this site brings both documents together, with a summary sheet for your family and your doctor.