Understandably, matters relating to end of life and incapacity are difficult to discuss, however it enables physicians and clinical care staff to provide the type of health care that an individual expresses he or she prefers.  If a loved one is unable to make such decisions for him or herself, our goal is to provide care that honors the wishes our patient.

We encourage you to discuss your feelings and beliefs about these subjects with those who may become responsible for making decisions for you such as family members, friends and your physician.  Advanced directives provide an important written statement of your wishes to others, but discussing your wishes with others is the key to ensuring that your wishes are understood.  Candid conversation can significantly reduce the chance of disagreements occurring between those who care for you, and may relieve your loved ones of some of the heavy burdens of decision making, while lending additional assurance that your wishes will be respected.

    An Advance Health Care Directive (Advance Directive) is a document in which you give instructions about your health care if, in the future, you cannot speak for yourself. You may appoint someone to make health care decisions for you. You may give instructions about the kind of health care you do or do not want.