Plan Ahead for the Future

End of life is something we do not like to talk about, but it’s important that your loved ones know your wishes and that those wishes are in writing. An advance directive does that.

Provide Direction for Your Care

An advance directive is a legal document that helps direct your health care decisions as you see fit in the event you become unable to speak for yourself. An advance directive:

• Takes effect only if and when you cannot speak for yourself.
  
• Allows you to choose the kind of health care you want.
  
• Appoints someone you trust to make sure decisions regarding your health care are carried out as you see fit.

Making these choices ahead of time can greatly reduce the burden facing your loved ones.

When you are admitted to the hospital, you will be asked if you have, or desire more information about, an advance directive. We encourage you to complete the advance directive before you arrive. If you have a completed advance directive, please bring it with you upon admission to the hospital.

Copies of the Five Wishes advance directive can be obtained online here.