Why Have an Advance Directive?

You may want to have an Advance Directive if

• You want to protect your right to make choices about your medical care that can affect your life
• You want your doctor or other caregiver to know the kind of medical care you want or don't want if you are too sick to speak for yourself
• You do not want your family and friends to make decisions about your care because you either do not think they will follow your directions or you do not want to burden them