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ADVANCE DIRECTIVES
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What is an Advance Directive?
An Advance Directive is a legal document that allows you to put in writing your wishes and instructions for your medical care should you lose the ability to communicate due to an accident or an illness.
In the Commonwealth of Virginia, an Advance Directive allows you to choose a healthcare agent (sometimes referred to as a medical power of attorney) who has the legal power to carry out your instructions or to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
In Virginia, you may also choose to make a Living Will as part of your Advance Directive. A Living Will allows you to direct your physician not to use heroic treatments if you become terminally ill or are in a persistent vegetative state from which you cannot reasonably be expected to recover.
An Advance Directive also provides you with the opportunity to share your wishes about organ and tissue donations.
If you have an Advance Directive, please make sure your nurse has a copy for your medical record or that the physician/nurse records your current wishes in your medical record. Your physician and family should also have a copy. If you do not have an Advance Directive but would like more information or to complete a form, please call our Case Management Office at (703) 369-8363 or Patient Relations at (703) 369-8004. All nursing units at Prince William Hospital have blank Advance Directive forms available, and there is no charge.
Why do I need an Advance Directive?
The law protects your right to make your own healthcare decisions. However, accidents and sickness can happen at any time.
When a health crisis occurs, it can be a stressful and emotional time for family, which often makes decision-making difficult. By having your instructions in writing (Advance Directive), you are helping your loved ones carry out your wishes and, therefore, not asking them to make these very difficult decisions for you.
If I Can’t Speak for Myself, Who Will?
If you do not have an Advance Directive or a Living Will and you are incapable of making your own decisions regarding your medical care, those choices will be made by your next of kin or legal representative (i.e.: spouse, guardian, adult children and parents), in consultation with your doctor and in accordance with Virginia law.
Be assured, the quality of medical care you receive from your healthcare providers will not be affected by whether or not you have an Advance Directive. You will receive quality medical care by your physician and the hospital staff.
How do I Make an Advance Directive?
The Commonwealth of Virginia accepts all forms of Advance Directives. You may use a simple form or be as detailed as you like. You may use a computer-generated form, handwrite your wishes or verbally discuss your wishes with your physician.
If you want help understanding your options regarding your Advance Directive, keep in mind that your physician is the best person to ask. If you choose to make an Advance Directive on your own, remember that it is very important that you tell your doctor about the choices you have made.
In addition to family and friends, some people also choose to discuss options with a lawyer or clergy member or other trusted advisor.
If you name a healthcare agent, we recommend that you choose someone who knows you and understands your values and beliefs. It should be someone you trust to carry out your wishes. Remember, it is important to discuss your decisions with that person so he or she will know what decisions you have made.
What’s Next?
After you have completed your Advance Directive, keep the original for yourself and make copies for your doctor and your healthcare agent.
Each time you are admitted to a hospital, you or a family member should bring a copy of your Advance Directive so that it can be placed in your medical record.
If you do not have an Advance Directive and would like to complete one, forms are available free of charge. To obtain a blank form, please contact the Prince William Hospital Patient Relations Department at (703) 369-8604 or the Case Management Department at (703) 369-8363. Or to print out a form, click here.
What if I Change my Mind?
You may cancel or change your Advance Directive (Living Will, Healthcare Agent) at any time by telling your physician and your healthcare agent. Then, replace your old Advance Directive(s) with your new Advance Directive.
Relevant Forms
Advance Directives Form
Emergency Medical Form
Medication Form
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