What Is an Advance Health Care Directive (AHCD)?
An Advance Health Care Directive combines two key legal tools:
- A Living Will – This document spells out your preferences for medical treatment if you’re in a terminal condition or permanently unconscious.
- Medical Power of Attorney – This lets you name someone to make health care decisions for you if you can’t do so yourself.
Utah’s AHCD form brings these together so your wishes are clear, and your chosen advocate has the legal authority to act.
Living Will: Express Your Wishes
A Living Will outlines the specific medical treatments you want—or don’t want—if you can’t communicate. It covers decisions like:
- CPR (resuscitation)
- Artificial nutrition and hydration
- Life support (e.g. ventilators)
- Organ donation
By creating a Living Will, you reduce uncertainty for your loved ones and medical team, ensuring they know exactly how to honor your wishes in difficult situations.
Medical Power of Attorney: Choose Your Advocate
Naming an agent for medical power of attorney lets you pick someone to make decisions if you’re unable to. This person will communicate with your doctors and ensure your medical preferences are followed. It’s crucial to choose someone who understands your values and is comfortable making decisions on your behalf.
In Utah, your chosen agent can:
- Make decisions about your medical care
- Approve or decline treatments
- Access your medical records
- Speak directly with your healthcare team
A Brief History of Utah’s AHCD Form
Utah created the current AHCD form to simplify the process. Previously, separate documents were needed for a Living Will and Medical Power of Attorney. In 2008, the state combined them into one form. This change made it easier for individuals to provide clear instructions and for healthcare providers to follow them.
The AHCD form has evolved to keep up with medical and legal standards. It’s widely recognized across Utah’s hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Keeping Your AHCD Up to Date
An Advance Health Care Directive isn’t set in stone. You can update or cancel it at any time, as long as you’re mentally capable. It’s a good idea to review your directive regularly—especially after major life changes like a new diagnosis or a shift in your personal situation.
Key Takeaways:
- Utah’s Advance Health Care Directive allows you to create a Living Will and appoint a Medical Power of Attorney.
- A Living Will ensures your medical care preferences are followed, even if you can’t communicate them.
- The Medical Power of Attorney lets someone you trust make decisions on your behalf.
- Utah’s AHCD form simplifies this process by combining both into one document.
- You can update or revoke your directive at any time.
Planning ahead with an Advance Health Care Directive gives you peace of mind. You’ll know your medical preferences will be respected, and your loved ones won’t be left guessing during tough times. If you need help creating your AHCD, reach out to us today—we’re here to guide you through the process.