An advance directive is a document in which you specify what medical care you would like in the future, in case you are unable to make decisions yourself in the future. The decision to have an advance directive is completely voluntary. You cannot be forced into having one. There are two different types of advance directives:

• Durable power of attorney for health
  
• Living will

Before completing an advance directive, you should discuss the issue with family members, close friends, and your doctor.

To have an advance directive, you may hire a lawyer to draft the document, or you could write the document yourself. If you complete the document yourself, you should type it or print it so that it is easily legible.

It would be wise for you to review your advance directive at least once a year, so you may decide to keep the document, write a new one, or destroy it. If you review it, you should put your initials and the date on the bottom. If you write a new one, you should try to get back all copies of the old document and destroy them.

Advance directives can be revoked at any time if you give any indication that the document does not reflect your current wishes.

Your advance directive becomes effective as soon as you become unable to make any decisions for yourself, such as in a permanent state of unconsciousness or if you become terminally ill.