What is an Advanced Medical Directive?

An Advanced Medical Directive (AMD) is a legal document that enables individuals to indicate their wishes for medical treatment if they become unable to make decisions or express their wishes due to a medical condition or disability. It provides family members and other loved ones with the assurance that the individual’s wishes will be honored. In Virginia, an AMD can be either a Health Care Power of Attorney (HCPOA) or a Living Will, depending on the needs of the individual. In a Health Care Power of Attorney, an individual names a person to act on their behalf in making health care decisions. With a Living Will, the individual can express their wishes regarding the type and extent of medical treatment they wish to receive. Both documents are important components of disability planning, as they provide legally binding instructions for health care providers and medical professionals to follow. An AMD document can also provide individuals with peace of mind knowing that their wishes, no matter what they may be, will be honored in the event of an illness or disability. It can help minimize family stress by avoiding difficult decisions and possible disputes at a difficult time.

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What is an Advanced Medical Directive?

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