Advanced Care Planning

The law in Virginia states that all adults of sound mind "have a right to determine what shall be done with his [or her] own body."  A written Advance Directive, sometimes called a Living Will, includes naming a Healthcare Agent, wishes for your general healthcare and for your end-of-life care, as well as instructions for organ and tissue donation.  The Directive must be signed by you and two adult witnesses.

The Health Care Decisions Act provides specific directions on how Advance Directives are to be created and honored.  An Advance Directive can be revoked by destroying it or writing "Revoked" with your signature and date.  An Advance Directive is only used if you are not able to communicate