Hospital And Advance Care Directives
Many families first hear about Advance Care Directives during a hospital admission.
A serious illness, unexpected injury or medical emergency can quickly lead to important discussions about treatment, future care and decision-making.
This is one reason why many Australians choose to complete advance care planning before a crisis occurs.
Why Hospitals Ask About Advance Care Directives
Hospitals and health professionals often want to understand whether a patient has documented their wishes about future health care and medical treatment.
If an Advance Care Directive exists, it may help provide guidance about a person’s values, preferences and wishes if they are unable to communicate them directly.
This can help reduce uncertainty during difficult situations.
A Real-Life Example
Imagine your father is admitted to hospital after a severe stroke.
He is unable to communicate and doctors need to discuss treatment options with the family.
If your father has previously completed an Advance Care Directive, it may provide guidance about his wishes and preferences.
If no Advance Care Directive exists, family members may be left trying to determine what he would have wanted.
This is one reason why advance care planning is often encouraged before a health crisis occurs.
Can Hospitals Access An Advance Care Directive?
The process varies depending on the circumstances, health system and state or territory requirements.
Many people choose to keep copies available and ensure family members, substitute decision-makers and relevant health professionals know where important documents are stored.
Having documents available when needed can be just as important as creating them.
What If There Is No Advance Care Directive?
Health professionals will still provide care and work with the people who are legally authorised or appropriate to be involved in decision-making.
However, there may be less guidance about a person’s wishes if those wishes have never been discussed or documented.
This can sometimes create additional uncertainty for families.
Should Family Members Know Your Wishes?
Yes.
Many experts encourage discussing future care wishes with family members, trusted friends or people who may be involved in future decision-making.
Conversations can help ensure important preferences are understood before a medical emergency occurs.
Advance Care Planning Is More Than A Document
Many people focus on completing forms and paperwork.
However, advance care planning also involves conversations, understanding personal values and helping loved ones understand what matters most to you.
The document is important, but the discussion is often just as valuable.
Do The Rules Differ Across Australia?
Yes.
Advance Care Directives, substitute decision-making arrangements and hospital processes vary between Australian states and territories.
It is important to understand the requirements that apply where you live and seek professional advice where appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do hospitals ask about Advance Care Directives?
Many hospitals ask whether a patient has completed advance care planning documents, particularly during serious illness or hospital admissions.
Should I take my Advance Care Directive to hospital?
Many people choose to ensure copies are available and that family members know where important documents are stored.
What happens if there is no Advance Care Directive?
Health professionals will continue providing care, but there may be less guidance about a person’s wishes if those wishes have never been documented or discussed.
Can family members help explain my wishes?
Family discussions can help loved ones better understand your values and preferences if decisions need to be made in the future.
Is an Advance Care Directive only useful in hospital?
No. Advance care planning can be relevant across many health and care settings, not just hospitals.
Sources and Additional Information
Related Resources
- What Is An Advance Care Directive?
- What Happens If There Is No Advance Care Directive?
- When Should You Create An Advance Care Directive?
- Talking To Family About Future Care Decisions
- Free Aged Care Tools
Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal, financial or professional advice. Laws vary between Australian states and territories.