Advance Health Care Directives

     

Forms & Information

The recent publicity over the decision to remove artificial nutrition and hydration from Terri Schiavo captured the attention of people throughout the nation. This tragic story also raised awareness about how important it is for every adult to think about these decisions now. We encourage you to:

  1. select someone to speak for you if you are unable to communicate
  2. express your wishes in an advance directive ("living will")

Listed below is basic information on how you can help make sure your end–of–life care wishes are followed. Included is a free advance directive form. You can also get forms from most hospitals and many doctors' offices.

The Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to download the following documents. If you do not already have the Acrobat Reader installed, you may download it free from Adobe's Acrobat download page.

Fact Sheet – answers basic questions about advance health care directives – what they are, how to complete them, and what to do with your form when it's complete. Also includes helpful resources. Download the fact sheet in English, Spanish or Chinese.

Conversation Guide – provides suggestions on how to start the conversation with your loved ones about their wishes for medical care if they become seriously ill.

Advance Directive Form – Many different forms are available.

Go Wish Cards – an easy, entertaining way to think and talk about what's important to you if you become seriously ill. For more information on Go Wish Cards visit Coda Alliance's Web site.

Finding Your Way Booklet – This 13-page booklet developed by Sacramento Healthcare Decisions uses clear, accurate information to help those who are starting the advance care planning process or considering whether to initiate or withdraw life sustaining treatment when the end of life is near. Also available in Spanish. Click here for order information or call (916) 851–2828.

Mrs. Lee's Story – This 16-page booklet written in Chinese and English relates the story of 91-year-old Mrs. Ming Lee to introduce health issues that concern Chinese elders and their families. It includes basic information on advance directives, advance care planning, pain management, and hospice care. Read more.


The California Coalition for Compassionate Care is a statewide collaboration of over 60 organizations including healthcare providers, consumers and regulatory agencies committed to improving end of life care for Californians.

Return to the Coalition Home Page

This web page was last updated on 10/30/06.

 

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