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All 50 states and the District of Columbia have laws recognizing the use of advance directives (i.e., living wills, medical powers of attorney). Most states honor another state's advance directive. But more importantly, if your advance directive is registered, your family and doctors will have access to your wishes.

Current thinking about advance care planning reveals it to be composed of behaviors including clarification of values; communication among patients, surrogates, and clinicians; and completion of written directives.

Advance directives are legally valid throughout the United States.The laws governing advance directives vary from state to state, so it is important to complete and sign advance directives that comply with your state's law.

Governing laws vary so be sure to obtain an advance directive that complies with your state's laws. You do not need an attorney to complete an advance directive. If you reside in more than one state, you should complete an advance directive for each state where you spend a significant amount of time.

Types of Advance DirectivesThe living will.Durable power of attorney for health care/Medical power of attorney.POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment)Do not resuscitate (DNR) orders.Organ and tissue donation.May 13, 2019

It should include your known wishes about treatment. An Advance Care Directive is a way to say what healthcare treatments you would like to have or refuse, should you find yourself in a position where you are seriously ill or injured and unable to make or communicate decisions about your treatment and care.

An easy way to start the conversation is to ask if they have any documents already prepared, if they have talked to anyone else about advance directives, and if they would be comfortable sharing how they feel. You can also use resources like the Serious Illness Conversation Guide (see "Resources").