An Advance Health Directive is used to give directions about how you wish to be cared for for future health matters in the event you are unable to do so.
It can be used to record your wishes and beliefs about the medical treatment you do or do not wish to receive, and your quality of life.
Queenslanders use an Advance Health Directive to record their request for particular treatment such as to:
- Elect whether you wish health-care providers to give you all medical treatment possible, or if there are some treatments you wish to refuse (e.g. blood transfusions, vaccines, use of life support machines)
- Record any medical conditions you wish health-care providers to be aware of (e.g. asthma, allergies)
- Record any religious beliefs which may affect your medical treatment (e.g. no organ donations or blood transfusions)
Many people choose to make an Advance Health Directive for personal and/or religious reasons. They are an invaluable tool for your loved ones when it comes to how you are treated when you can’t communicate your preferences.
