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An advance directive is a way to tell your loved ones and doctors your wishes if something happens and you can’t speak for yourself.
A directive can include the type and extent of your medical care. It can help your family and care team better understand your values. Being prepared can bring you and your loved ones peace of mind.
Learn more about advance directives and health care planning from the Utah Commission on Aging.
What is an advance directive?
Advance directive forms are a way to write down your wishes before a crisis. These legal documents tell your loved ones and doctors what medical treatments you want and don’t want in case you can’t speak for yourself.
Who should have one?
Everyone. Each person may face an unexpected medical crisis. Illness or injury can make anyone unable to make decisions or speak for themselves. That makes it much harder for family and loved ones to know what to do.
When should I fill out my advance directive?
Now. It is best to do it while you are able to think clearly and before a crisis ever happens. It is a good idea to review and update your directive every year.
How do I get started?
Consider your basic beliefs about life and medicine. Talk about your fears with a loved one. Think about what matters most to you in a crisis – Having family nearby? Being at home? Getting spiritual support?
Use the Utah Advance Health Care Directive forms to record your wishes. Your doctor, nurse or social worker can help answer any questions.
Can I change my mind?
Yes. You can change or update a directive any time. Your directive only takes effect if you cannot speak for yourself.
Does having an advance directive keep me from getting the best care?
No. Advance directives do not change the quality of care you get, they just tell which treatments you do or don’t want.
I have a directive in another state. Does it work in Utah or other states?
Each state has different laws about directives. Talk with your health care team to see if there are any conflicts with Utah’s laws. If you now live in Utah, you should update your directive to the Utah form.
What is power of attorney or a health care agent?
You can have another person make health care decisions for you if you are unable to speak for yourself. You can give that person permission—called medical power of attorney—on a form.
The person you choose is called an agent. It can be a friend, family member, or licensed professional. The person should:
- Be 18 years old or older
- Be willing and able to speak on your behalf
- Know you and your wishes well
- Advocate for you with your doctors and family
- Be willing to talk with you about sensitive issues
- Be able to make decisions important to you
Who do I give the forms to when they are completed?
Give a copy to your agent and one to your primary health care team. Keep a copy in a safe place. Share the forms with anyone you feel would be helpful such as your children, grandchildren, cancer care team, attorney, or clergy person.
Who can witness my advance directive?
By law, you need a witness with you when you fill out your advance directive. This person will sign the forms when you are done. The witness must be a “disinterested adult” which means:
- The witness must be over age 18
- The witness cannot be related to you by blood or marriage
- The witness has no right or interest to your estate
Ask your social worker if you need help finding a witness.
What should I remember to do while filling out the directive forms?
- Write clearly with black ink
- Write your name and date on all pages
- Use initials instead of check marks
- Write your birth date on the first page
- Cross out sections you leave blank
What should I do with my advance directive once it is filled out?
- Give a copy to your agent. You may also give copies to members of your family.
- Keep the original form with your important papers.
- Take a copy to your next doctor’s appointment.
- If you are seeing doctors at more than one healthcare facility, ensure each health center has a copy.
- If you are a patient at Huntsman Cancer Institute, you can also deliver or mail a copy of your form to the address below:
Health Information
Huntsman Cancer Institute, Room 2130
1950 Circle of Hope
Salt Lake City, UT 84112