There may come a time when you are unable to decide or tell us what you want with
regards to your treatment. You have the opportunity now to make some decisions ahead of time. You can tell
is in writing about the kind of care you would want if you cannot speak for yourself. This is done through
an advance directive.
An advance directive is a written document that explains the health care you want to receive if you
cannot or choose not to make your own decisions. There are two kinds of advance directives —
- A living will lets you state in advance what kind of care you would want or not want
if there comes a time when you cannot make these decisions for yourself.
- A durable power of attorney for health care is used to appoint a person you trust to
make health care decisions for you when you cannot or choose not to make your own decisions. This
person is called a proxy or health care agent.
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It should be someone you trust — a spouse,
parent, adult child, friend, or other family member.
Whoever it is, you should talk to them about your
concerns and wishes and what kind of treatments
you would want or not want. You and your proxy
cannot know all of the questions that might arise
in the future, so you'll want your proxy to know
what you value most in life and how this reflects
on the type of care you would choose for yourself.
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If you can no longer make decisions about your
health care, your doctor will ask your next of
kin, family, and friends what they believe you
would want. These decisions are not easy to make.
They can cause great stress in families that have
not taken the time to discuss these matters ahead
of time.
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At the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, our social workers are equipped to assist you in
preparing advance directives. Just ask any of your providers to contact your team social worker.
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Our medical center has resources to help you write
your advance directive. These include video programs
on the VA Television Network or in the Patient
Education Center. You can also ask for our medical
center's advance directive policy and procedures.
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Yes, but only by you. You may change or cancel
it at any time. You can do this by simply telling
your doctor, but it is best to write a new advance
directive. Be sure to tell your proxy and others
concerned with your health care.
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An advance directive is only effective if it is
shared with those who need to know. It must be
part of your medical record. Make and give copies
to the following parties —
- your doctor(s)
- your proxy
- anyone concerned with your health care
Don't forget to make a copy for your own records.
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