How an Advance Decision is deemed valid
To decide whether an Advance Decision is legal and applicable, the doctors or healthcare professionals must try to find out if the person:
- Has cancelled or 'revoked' their Advance Decision.
- Has done anything that goes against their Advance Decision. For example, if they have clearly said they would like to have a specific treatment that is listed for refusal in their Advance Decision.
- Has withdrawn the Advance Decision by preparing and registering a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) for Health and Welfare.
Keeping an Advance Decision up to date
Once an Advance Decision is validly made, it remains legal unless you decide to change some or all of it, or 'revoke' (meaning cancel) it. To make sure your Advance Decision is up to date and valid, you should review your decisions regularly. For example, every 3 to 5 years if your condition is relatively stable.