Do You Need an Advance Health Directive?
Life is unpredictable, and while no one likes to dwell on worst-case scenarios, having a plan in place ensures your medical choices are respected if you can no longer make decisions for yourself. An Advance Health Directive (AHD) allows you to record your healthcare preferences in a legally binding document, providing certainty for you and your loved ones. But is it necessary for everyone? Let’s explore why an AHD is a crucial part of future planning.
What Is an Advance Health Directive?
An Advance Health Directive is a formal document that outlines the medical treatments you wish to receive—or refuse—if you become unable to communicate your decisions. It ensures that healthcare professionals and family members follow your instructions should you lose the capacity to express them.
In Western Australia, an AHD is legally binding, meaning medical practitioners must comply with your lawful stated preferences. This document can address life-sustaining treatments, palliative care, resuscitation, and any other specific medical interventions you feel strongly about. Learn more about how an Advance Health Directive works.
Why Consider an Advance Health Directive?
An AHD is more than just a document—it’s a safeguard for your autonomy and a relief for your loved ones during emotionally charged situations.
✔ Maintain Control Over Your Healthcare – Without an AHD, doctors and family members may need to make decisions on your behalf, potentially contradicting your personal wishes.
✔ Prevent Family Disputes – When medical decisions are left unclear, family members may disagree on the best course of action. A legally binding directive eliminates uncertainty.
✔ Ensure Your Decisions Are Respected – Medical professionals are obligated to follow your directive, providing peace of mind that your preferences will be upheld.
✔ Work Alongside an Enduring Power of Guardianship – While an AHD specifies medical treatments, an Enduring Power of Guardianship appoints someone to make broader health and lifestyle decisions on your behalf. Having both ensures comprehensive future planning. Explore the pros and cons of Advance Health Directives.
How Does an Advance Health Directive Compare to an Enduring Power of Attorney?
An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) allows a trusted person to manage your financial and legal affairs if you lose capacity, whereas an AHD focuses exclusively on medical decisions. While an EPA ensures your finances are protected, an AHD guarantees your healthcare preferences are honoured. Both play a vital role in a well-rounded estate plan. Find out more about Advance Health Directives in Perth.
Can You Modify an Advance Health Directive?
Yes. As long as you retain mental capacity, you can amend or revoke your AHD at any time. Life circumstances and medical opinions change, so it’s wise to review your directive periodically to ensure it aligns with your current wishes.
Protecting Your Future with Bechelet & Co
At Bechelet & Co, we specialise in estate planning and litigation in Perth, Western Australia. Whether you need an Advance Health Directive, an Enduring Power of Guardianship, or assistance with contested estates, our legal team provides clear, results-driven representation.
Planning for the unexpected isn’t just about protecting yourself—it’s about easing the burden on your loved ones and ensuring your rights are upheld. Contact us today to discuss how we can help secure your future with confidence.
