Medical emergencies can happen to anyone, at any time. Having an advance directive in place ensures your voice is heard, even if you’re unable to speak for yourself.
What Is an Advance Directive?
An advance directive is a legal document that outlines your preferences for medical care in the event you can't make decisions for yourself. It also lets you appoint a trusted person—called a healthcare agent—to make decisions on your behalf.
“Advance directives are important legal documents, but you do not need a lawyer to complete one,” said Dr. Cory Taylor, palliative care physician at Intermountain Health. “The most important part of completing an advance directive is naming your medical decision-makers. If you can describe what a minimally acceptable quality of life means to you, even better.”
Why Advance Directives Matter
For many families, these conversations bring clarity and peace of mind.
Carrie Lindsay recalls creating an advance directive with her father after he was diagnosed with dementia:
“We had extended talks with Dad about making medical decisions for him in a time when he might be unable to speak for himself. It was a game changer... His advance directive clarified Dad’s wishes and gave us peace of mind and freedom from guilt.”
Benefits of an Advance Directive:
- Ensures your healthcare wishes are honored
- Reduces stress and uncertainty for your loved ones
- Empowers medical teams to align care with your goals
- Prevents family conflicts during emotional times
Part of Emergency Preparedness
“Emergencies happen, and part of being prepared is planning for medical crises before they occur,” said Hannah Belnap-Gunn, PA-C, a palliative care physician assistant at Intermountain Health.
Even temporary conditions—like a head injury or critical illness—can leave you unable to speak. That’s why everyone 18 and older should have an advance directive, regardless of current health.
Update your advance directive when:
- You receive a new diagnosis
- Your health declines
- You get married or divorced
- Your chosen healthcare agent is no longer available
What About a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order?
While an advance directive expresses your values and designates a decision-maker, it is not a medical order.
“If you would rather die comfortably than receive CPR—or, in other words, if you wish to have an active ‘DNR’—you need to complete a separate form called a Provider Order for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST),” said Dr. Taylor.
“This form must be signed by a medical provider and posted somewhere visible in your home.”
Talk to your provider to learn more about completing this form.
Join a Free Advance Care Planning Workshop
Getting started is easier than you think. Intermountain Health offers free, one-hour virtual workshops to walk you through the steps.
Upcoming Workshop Dates:
- Tuesday, April 17 at 1:00 PM
- 🖱 Register now by visiting the Advance Care Planning webpage.
Take Control of Your Future Today
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Start the conversation with your loved ones now and make sure your wishes are known and respected.