Much of life is shaped by the choices we make about our well-being and how we care for ourselves. When it comes to medical care and treatment, most people feel better when they participate in these decisions. 

 

Making decisions “as you wish” is an empowering statement to others that what you want is most important. This is especially true when it comes to the health care you receive. Wishes are personal and extremely important, but they need to be known in order to be honored.

 

Creating an Advance Directive requires thoughtful consideration. It is part of a process that involves thinking about your values and goals for medical care, and talking with those who are close to you about how you want to live during serious illness. The sooner you begin planning, the sooner you and your loved ones will have a clear understanding of what you want.

 

The most important thing to remember is that as difficult as this conversation may be, it would be even more difficult for our loved ones to make those decisions for us without knowing what we would and would not have wanted. The resources below are intended to help consumers and health care professionals make better decisions. If you have questions or need additional resources please contact the MOST Coalition.