ADVANCE DIRECTIVES

You have the right to make all decisions about the health care you receive. If you do not want certain treatments, you have the right to tell your doctor you do not want them. If you want to refuse treatment, but you do not have someone to name as your agent, you can sign a living will.

People need to know your wishes about health care in case you become unable to speak effectively for yourself. You can express your wishes in an advance directive.

In a living will, you tell your doctor that you do not want to receive certain treatment. In a health care power of attorney, you name an agent who will tell the doctor what treatment should or should not be provided.

These documents will be followed only if you are unable, due to illness or injury, to make decisions for yourself. The best way to make sure your wishes are followed is to state your wishes in an advance directive. If you want to refuse treatment but you do not have someone to name as your agent, you can sign a living will.

A health care power of attorney also should be discussed with the people you intend to name as your agent and alternate agents to make sure that they are willing to serve and know your wishes.

North Mississippi Hospice staff will provide you with written information describing your rights to make decisions about your medical care. We will also provide care to you regardless of whether or not you have executed an advance directive.

For information regarding five wishes go to www.agingwithdignity.org/fivewishes

or http://msdh.ms.gov