In 2005 a much contested debate over the lack of having a living will received national media attention. This case highlights the importance of having an Advance Directive. An Advance Directive documents the expressed wishes and desires of an individual in the event of a debilitating medical crisis. It is a legal document outlining the preferred types of treatment to be followed if a person becomes incapacitated and is unable to make decisions regarding his or her own healthcare.

Some of the topics covered in this training include:

• What is an Advance Directive
• Your Right to Self-Determination
• What is Informed Consent
• What is a Health Care Proxy
• What is a Living Will
• How do I create an Advance Directive
• What do I do with my Advance Directive

This training will teach participants about the benefits of having an Advance Directive, the various elements covered in an Advance Directive and how to create your own Advance Directive. Don’t get caught in the middle of a media debate. You should always have the final say when it comes to your own healthcare.

• Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law
• National Resource Center on Advance Directives