Advance Directives
Michigan law gives you the right to accept or refuse medical care. This is stated in the Patient bill of Rights, which you receive when you enter a hospital, nursing home or similar facility.
You have the right to prepare an Advance Directive. This is a document that you fill out to explain the health care you wish to receive.
What Is An Advance Directive?
An Advance Directive is a written document that tells what you want or don't want if you can't make your wishes known about medical treatment. This needs to be signed by you and a witness. Copies of your Advance Directive need to be given to your doctor, the person(s) you have chosen as your advocate, family members, the medical records department of the hospital(s) where you get care and anyone else who may be involved with your care. It is important to discuss your Advance Directives with those who may be involved.
Who Needs An Advance Directive?
All persons need an Advance Directive. An illness or accident leaving you unable to speak for yourself can happen at any time. Letting your physician and hospital know ahead of time what care is desired gives you control of your medical treatment.
What Does An Advance Directive Consist Of?
A Living Will is the part of an Advance Directive that tells what medical treatment you do or do not want if you are unable to make your wishes known. A Living Will on its own is not a legal document in the State of Michigan.
A Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care is the art of an Advance Directive that names someone to make medical care decisions for you if you are unable to do so. This is a legal document in the State of Michigan. The person who you have chosen, and who agrees to it, is known as the Patient Advocate, or agent.
The forms offered at Aspirus Keweenaw are a combination of a Living Will and a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care.
Legal acceptance of Advance Directives varies among states. Michigan recognizes an Advance Directive when it includes a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care.
When Should I Prepare An Advance Directive?
The best time to think about the type of care you want is when you are able to decide for yourself. You do not have to prepare an Advance Directive.
Any competent adult (age 18 or older) may write an Advance Directive. A minor may write an Advance Directive but, by law, parents and health care providers do no have to follow it.
You may want to discuss Advance Directives issues with your family, clergy, close friends and physician. Your doctor can explain the medical terms you need to understand to write your Advance Directive. You may want to discuss legal issues with your attorney.
It is your responsibility to inform your physician, family members, and others that you have written an Advance Directive. Give copies to these people.
Do I Need Special Forms?
No. Michigan recognizes Advance Directives that include a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care from other states. However, laws regulating Advance Directives vary by state, so Michigan forms may not be accepted in another state.
You should request that a signed copy of your Advance Directive be filed in your Aspirus Keweenaw medical record and in any facility that you receive medical care.
Where Can I Get Forms?
Advance Directive forms can be obtained at Aspirus Keweenaw admission offices, patient care units, and physician offices.
Is An Advance Directive Required?
No. You do not have to write an Advance Directive to receive health care. However, if you have an Advance Directive, it should be part of your medical record. You need to provide Aspirus Keweenaw with a copy of your Advance Directive if you have not already done so.
Can Advance Directives Be Changed?
Yes. You may change or cancel your Advance Directive at any time regardless of your physical or mental condition. Inform your physician of these changes in writing. Documented verbal changes are acceptable. Besides notifying your physician of chnages, you need to inform your patient advocate, your family and other appropriate people. The Medical Records department will also need a revised copy.
Will Aspirus Keweenaw Honor My Advance Directive?
Aspirus Keweenaw will honor an available Advance Directive to the fullest extent possible, consistent with reasonable medical practice. "Reasonable medical practice" refers to the authority of your physician to decide if treatment is appropriate.
Who Will Speak For Me If I Am Incapacitated and My Physician Has A Question About My Advance Directive?
The person you have named as your agent (personal advocate) will be consulted. If your agent declines or is unavailable, an alternate agent or family member will be consulted. It is in your best interest to provide each of them with a copy of this important document.
Resources Available At Aspirus Keweenaw
Brochures and videos are available regarding Advance Directives. Call the Education or Social Services offices at (906) 337-6500 if you have questions or would like to receive additional information about Advance Directives.
