When should an Advanced Medical Directive be used?

An Advanced Medical Directive (AMD) should be used in any situation when an individual wants to provide clear instructions about their medical care if they become incapacitated or ill and unable to communicate their wishes. In the state of Virginia, an individual must be at least 18 years of age to create an AMD. The AMD is a powerful tool that allows individuals to make decisions about their medical care if they are unable to make decisions for themselves. It allows an individual to legally state their wishes for medical care and life-saving procedures such as ventilators. It also allows an individual to name a surrogate decision maker who will make decisions on their behalf. It is important to note that an AMD is not a substitute for a living will. While a living will can help an individual express their wishes for end-of-life medical care, an AMD is more comprehensive and can address any situation in which an individual may be unable to make decisions for themselves due to illness or incapacity. AMDs are important tools for individuals who want to have their wishes respected if they become unable to communicate. The AMD should be signed and witnessed and kept in a safe place where it can be easily accessed by a surrogate decision maker. Every individual should consider creating an Advanced Medical Directive in order to have their medical wishes respected in the case of an incapacitating illness or injury.

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