2C. Medical Directives

What are medical directives?

Medical Directivesb are written statements which allow a person to plan ahead of time and express their desires for specific medical treatments during instances when they cannot communicate consent.

These written statements are only valid if made by a competent adult (that’s going to be a consistent rule throughout this course).

The written statements also have the power to include the appointment of an agent to make medical decisions.

Agents created by Medical Directives are referred to as a Medical Power of AttorneyWritten instructions for a healthcare provider used when a person is unable to communicate. Also called a Living Will or Power of Attorney for Healthcare. LEGAL DEFINITION: A written instrument.... An agent’sauthority is limited to the wishes of the individual as expressed in their Medical Directive and only apply during periods when theindividual is incompetent to make medical decisions.