Advance directives are documents that enable you to make decisions concerning your health care before there is a need. For most people, it is very difficult to talk about being so sick or injured that they are unable to speak for themselves. This is understandable, but the only way to be certain that your wishes will be followed is to put them down in writing.

CDPHP has developed a booklet to answer your questions and help you understand why having an advance directive is so important. The booklet explains the different forms available, including the Health Care Proxy Form and New York Living Will, and gives information about making a decision on cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Every adult should learn about advance directives and why you should have one.

If you want to learn more about advance directives, click here or call your member services representative number on your ID card to request a paper copy.