Like many people, you value your independence and ability to make decisions for yourself. No one ever wants to think they may someday be unable to make their own decisions, especially when it comes to health care. But sometimes medical situations arise that prevent people from communicating their wishes about medical intervention and/or life prolonging care.
The information in this section has been prepared by the Washington State Medical Association to assist you in making end-of-life decisions. Your decisions can be communicated in written documents called "Advance Directives." Your chosen decision-maker on your advance directive can speak for you if you are ever unable to express your medical wishes.
Please review this information. You may want to speak with your physician about this, as well as a counselor or religious/spiritual adviser. While advanced directives don't require an attorney's involvement, you may want to discuss any legal questions you have with your personal attorney.
Advanced planning reduces uncertainty about how you want to be cared for at the end-of-life. We hope you will discuss your decisions with those closest to you and put your wishes in writing. By making choices in advance, many patients find peace-of-mind and assurance knowing their desires will be carried out in the event of a medical crisis. Family and friends appreciate the guidance your decisions provide.