Advance Care Planning

What are Advance Directives?

A living will, health care proxy, and durable power of attorney are the legal documents that allow you to give direction to medical personnel, family, and friends concerning your future care when you cannot speak for yourself. You do not need a lawyer in order to complete Advance Directives.

How can I get more information about making an Advance Directive?

Ask your doctor, nurse, social worker, or healthcare provider to get more information for you. You can have a lawyer write an Advance Directive for you, or you can prepare your Advance Directive specific to your decisions on your own by completing the fill-in document.

What if I become too sick to make my own healthcare decisions?

If you have not completed an Advance Directive and have not named a surrogate, your physician will ask your closest relative or friend to help decide what is best for you. Most of the time that works. But sometimes everyone doesn’t agree about what to do. That is why it is helpful to complete an Advance Directive to make everyone aware of what you want to happen if you can’t speak for yourself.

Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital is here to offer support, as we know this topic may be difficult. We also offer a class to discuss Advanced Care Planning, questions you may have, or how to navigate through these difficult matters.

For scheduled class dates, please click here: Advanced Care Planning: Sharing Your Wishes for Future Care

You may also email community education or call 661-200-2300 for more information.

READ ABOUT HENRY MAYO'S POLICY REGARDING THE CALIFORNIA END OF LIFE OPTION ACT