Why make an Advance Decision

As an adult you are able to make your own decisions about what medical treatment you agree to or refuse. You have the right to be involved in any decisions that affect you.

Most people, as their condition progresses, may struggle to make complex or difficult decisions about their care needs. There will come a time when a decision has to be made about whether or not you should have a particular medical treatment, but you lack the mental capacity to do so. For example, a decision on whether you should be given antibiotics if you get a severe infection that, if not treated, could result in your death.

If you choose, you can make an Advance Decision to refuse treatments in advance and while you have the ability to make your own decisions.

When an Advance Decision applies

Your Advance Decision, if you've made one, will only come into effect if:

• You are no longer able to agree to, or refuse, the treatment at that time.
• It covers the specific treatment/s in the specific situation/s.