Healthcare directive
Give the people caring for you a better sense of what matters to you.
A healthcare directive records your preferences for medical care and can name the person you want to speak for you if you cannot speak for yourself.
What it is for
Your values can guide decisions when you cannot.
A healthcare directive gives your loved ones and care team a record of your wishes. It can address the kind of care you would want, what you would prefer to avoid, and who should help make decisions if you are unable to do so.
It cannot predict every medical situation. Its value is giving the person who speaks for you a clearer starting point when choices are hard and time is short.
The person you choose matters
A healthcare agent should know your wishes, not just your medical history.
Your agent may need to ask doctors questions, consider treatment options, and communicate your choices. A good conversation now can be more helpful than a long form completed in silence.
A good place to start
Three conversations worth having.
- 01
Who should speak for you?
Choose someone who can stay calm, ask questions, and honor your wishes. Let them know you chose them and where to find your directive.
- 02
What matters most to you?
Think about the care that would feel acceptable to you, the outcomes you would find meaningful, and the people or beliefs that should guide decisions.
- 03
What needs to be shared?
A directive is most useful when the people involved know it exists. Your healthcare agent, close family, and care providers may each need a copy or access to it.
Who should consider one
Most adults benefit from making their wishes easier to find.
- People who want someone trusted to speak for them during a medical crisis.
- Adults caring for children, parents, or a partner who may otherwise be left guessing.
- Anyone preparing an estate plan that also addresses financial decisions and property.
- People whose health, values, faith, or family situation make specific conversations especially important.
Questions people ask
A document works best when the people around you understand it.
When is a healthcare directive used?
It is generally used when you cannot make or communicate your own healthcare decisions, as defined by the document and applicable law. While you can decide for yourself, you remain in control.
Is a healthcare directive the same as a financial power of attorney?
No. A healthcare directive addresses medical decisions. A durable power of attorney generally addresses financial and legal matters. Many plans include both.
Can I change my directive later?
Many directives can be updated or revoked while you have capacity. The appropriate process depends on the document and applicable law.
Your next step
Start with the conversation, then put it in writing.
We can help you identify the choices to think through and how a healthcare directive fits with the rest of your plan.