Improving the use of advance directives

Advance directives are a valuable form of medical planning and well-accepted by patients. They are part of preventive health care and should be included as routine care. Completion of these documents is a process requiring patient/physician communication and can be effectively completed over several visits. Periodic reassessment of patient attitudes is important. Finally, including these documents in the patient record and communication of this information is important, as it helps shepherd the patient through the medical system. Physician investment in the use of advance directives is minimal, while the rewards are prodigious.