Being prepared means being a partner in health.  We encourage you to take charge of your healthcare decisions.

Having an advance directive (also known as living wills and durable healthcare powers of attorney) means that you have made the decision about your future healthcare.  An advance directive goes into effect when you are too sick to express your own medical decision.

Upon admission, you will be asked if you have an advance directive.  If you don't, and would like information, a hospital representative will come to your room to assist you with an advance directive packet.

If you have an advance directive, a copy should be given to your primary care physician, a close family member, and the Medical Records Department to be attached to your permanent medical record.  The document will be placed on top of your medical records so that your healthcare providers have easy access to your wishes concerning medical care whenever your records are retrieved.

If you have any questions about advance directives, please call our Patient Services Advocate at 768-4394.