What is an advanced medical directive?

An advanced medical directive, also known as a living will, is a legal document that allows a person to express their wishes regarding their medical care in case they become incapacitated and unable to make decisions. In North Carolina, advance directives are written documents signed by a competent individual that gives instructions on how they would like to be treated if they are diagnosed with a terminal, life-threatening, or irreversible condition or if they become unable to make decisions in the future. An advance directive can be used to instruct medical professionals on how to proceed in the event of an emergency, such as tube feeding, intubation, or if resuscitation is desired. An advance directive can also be used to specify what type of pain management an individual wishes to receive and any other medical treatments that they do or do not wish to receive. They are typically completed in conjunction with a power of attorney or health care proxy, which appoints a person to make decisions on behalf of the incapacitated individual. Advanced directives are an important tool used by individuals with disabilities to ensure that their wishes are respected. It allows them to make decisions concerning their own health care, even when they are unable to do so themselves. Although advance directives are not required by law in North Carolina, it is an important element of a comprehensive disability plan.

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What is an advanced medical directive?

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