Advance Directives
There may come a time when you are unable to decide
or tell us what you want with regards to your treatment.
You have the opportunity now to make some decisions
ahead of time. You can tell is in writing about
the kind of care you would want if you cannot speak
for yourself. This is done through an advance
directive.
What is an advance directive?
An advance directive is a written document that
explains the health care you want to receive if
you cannot or choose not to make your own decisions.
There are two kinds of advance directives —
- A living will lets you state in advance what
kind of care you would want or not want if there
comes a time when you cannot make these decisions
for yourself.
- A durable power of attorney for health care
is used to appoint a person you trust to make
health care decisions for you when you cannot
or choose not to make your own decisions. This
person is called a proxy or health
care agent.
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Who can be my proxy?
It should be someone you trust — a spouse,
parent, adult child, friend, or other family member.
Whoever it is, you should talk to them about your
concerns and wishes and what kind of treatments
you would want or not want. You and your proxy
cannot know all of the questions that might arise
in the future, so you'll want your proxy to know
what you value most in life and how this reflects
on the type of care you would choose for yourself.
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If you can no longer make decisions about your
health care, your doctor will ask your next of
kin, family, and friends what they believe you
would want. These decisions are not easy to make.
They can cause great stress in families that have
not taken the time to discuss these matters ahead
of time.
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At the Dayton VA Medical Center, our social
workers are
equipped to assist you in preparing advance directives.
Just ask any of your providers to contact your
team social worker.
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The Dayton VA Medical Center has resources to help you write
your advance directive. These include video programs
on the VA Television Network or in the Patient
Education Center. You can also ask for the Dayton VA Medical Center's
advance directive policy and procedures.
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Yes, but only by you. You may change or cancel
it at any time. You can do this by simply telling
your doctor, but it is best to write a new advance
directive. Be sure to tell your proxy and others
concerned with your health care.
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An advance directive is only effective if it is
shared with those who need to know. It must be
part of your medical record. Make and give copies
to the following parties —
- your doctor(s)
- your proxy
- anyone concerned with your health care
Don't forget to make a copy for your own records.
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