An advance healthcare directive is a document that provides you with the opportunity to set out your medical treatment preferences should you become unable to communicate or make decisions on your own behalf.
What Is an Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment?
This legally binding document allows you to specify treatments that you don’t want to receive, such as resuscitation or ventilation. If you are refusing life-sustaining treatments, this statement must clearly outline that the directives apply even if your life is at risk.
What Is an Advance Statement?
An advance statement isn’t legally binding, but it offers you the chance to set out your values, beliefs, wishes and preferences. It can cover things such as dietary requirements and living arrangements and will act as a guide that loved ones and healthcare professionals can follow.
Difference Between an Advance Healthcare Directive and UK Power of Attorney
With an advance directive, you will make your own choices with regard to the treatments you would like to refuse. With a lasting power of attorney, you will be giving your attorneys the ability to choose on your behalf.
It is possible to have both documents, and discussing your options with a specialist team such as //powerofattorneyonline.co.uk can help you to make the right choice.
What to Do with an Advance Healthcare Directive
When you have completed the document in the presence of a witness, it’s important to share copies with your legal representatives, healthcare professionals, GP and family members. Having open conversations about this with your loved ones can be helpful to prevent miscommunication and misunderstanding.