An advanced health care directive lets you “name another individual as agent to make health care decisions for you if you become incapable of making your own decisions.” CPC §4701. The agent is in an extremely powerful position, so some choose to limit the agent’s authority. The agent can consent or refuse to consent to care, direct the provision or withholding of artificial life support, and consent to the disposition of remains.

For more information, check out the ABA’s free advanced healthcare directive toolkit, which can help you make important end of life decisions. Had Terri Schiavo made an advanced health care directive, the endless litigation surrounding her fate would have been avoided.