Estate
advance health care directive
An advance health care directive is a California document that names an agent to make medical decisions for you and states your wishes about care.
An advance health care directive is a written document in which you name an agent to make health care decisions if you cannot, and record your wishes about treatment. California offers a statutory form in Probate Code section 4701, though you may use a different form. It can cover end-of-life choices, pain relief, organ donation and your choice of primary physician.
How it is signed. The state form says it must be signed by two qualified witnesses or acknowledged before a notary public. You can revoke or replace it at any time. Give copies to your agent, your doctor and your hospital.
A round example. For example, a spouse is in the hospital and cannot speak. The directive names the other spouse as agent and lists the person's wishes. Doctors know who decides and what to follow. This is an illustration, not advice.
Why it matters to your plan. If your faith shapes your views on end-of-life care, a written directive and a talk with your agent make those views clear. See our California estate planning checklist.
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