Are Kentuckians using advance medical directives?

Area of Science:

• Medical Law
• Public Health Policy
• Bioethics

Background:

• Advance medical directives, including Living Wills and Health Care Surrogates, are crucial for patient self-determination.
• These documents protect patients' rights and shield healthcare providers from liability.
• Awareness and utilization of these directives in Kentucky are reportedly low.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current rates of Living Will completion and Health Care Surrogate designation among Kentucky adults.
• To evaluate public awareness of existing advance medical directive legislation in Kentucky.
• To identify barriers and recommend improvements for advance medical directive access and utilization.

Main Methods:

• A statewide survey was conducted to gather data on advance medical directive completion and awareness.
• The survey targeted adult residents of Kentucky.
• Statistical analysis was used to determine the percentages of completion and awareness.

Main Results:

• Only 9% of Kentucky adults have completed a Living Will.
• An equal percentage (9%) have designated a Health Care Surrogate.
• Awareness is limited: 37% know about Living Wills, and 24% know about Health Care Surrogates.

Conclusions:

• Significant gaps exist in the completion and awareness of advance medical directives in Kentucky.
• Educational initiatives are needed to inform the public about Living Wills and Health Care Surrogates.
• Legislative changes are recommended to improve access, ease utilization, and authorize family members as substitute decision-makers.