What if you were seriously injured or too ill to communicate? Would your family know what kind of medical care you'd want? Who would make decisions about your care?
Planning ahead can be a gift to you and your family. Advance directives are legal documents that allow you to convey your wishes to others while you have the time and resources to make clear and thoughtful choices. Carefully considering your options and then establishing advance care directives—before the need arises—helps your family and healthcare team know how to make medical decisions on your behalf, in keeping with your preferences and values.
At Portsmouth Regional Hospital, we encourage you to put your directives in writing and bring a copy with you when coming to the hospital for surgery, a procedure or inpatient stay. If you already have an advance directive, you must provide us with a copy in order for your requests to be followed.
Advance Directive Forms
Advance directive requirements, forms and their use vary by state. After you review the information for your particular state, you may want to consult with a legal professional. The following websites provide advance directive information and forms free of charge for residents of the greater Seacoast region.
- Maine – Maine Hospital Association
- Massachusetts – Massachusetts Medical Society