Who will make medical decisions for you if you can’t make them yourself?

Abstract

You have the right to make decisions about your medical care. But what if you become too ill to make the decisions? Does your family know your wishes? Does your doctor? It is important to talk about your wishes, and it is just as important to explain your wishes in a written “advance directive.” A written directive can help your loved ones make medical decisions for you if you can’t make them for yourself. A written statement concerning future medical treatment is a health care advance directive , which may include a 1) living will and 2) a health care power of attorney . A living will explains your wishes and your goals of care. A health care power of attorney appoints another person (sometimes called an “agent”) to make your health care decisions if you are unable to do so. Sometimes illness, especially neurologic disorders affecting the brain, such …