How to complete an advance health care directive

An advance health care directive is a written document that tells doctors how you want to be treated if you become very sick or are unable to speak for yourself. It’s easy to fill out a Minnesota Advance Health Care Directive form. The form has three main parts:

  • Part 1 — name a person (called an agent) to make health care decisions for you if a doctor feels you can't
  • Part 2 — write down your health care wishes or instructions. That way, doctors and others can make decisions based on your wishes and preferences.
  • Part 3 — sign and date the form. It must be signed by two witnesses or a notary to be legal.

See the brochure below for the form and more details.

When you are done filling out the form, give copies to your health care agent, spouse, doctor, nurse, family members or close friends. Then, talk to these people about your choices. Be sure to keep the original form in a safe place that is easy for others to find.

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