Create an Advance Care Directive
Information For Facilitators

Create an Advance Care Directive

What You Need to Know

What Is Advance Care Planning?

Advance Care Planning (ACP) is the process of thinking about and sharing your wishes for future health care. It includes informal conversations with loved ones, as well as formal steps like writing down your preferences. You can do as much or as little as you’re ready for. In Virginia, ACP is encouraged for every adult, regardless of age or health.

Informal ACP means talking with your family, friends, or health care provider about what matters most to you if you become seriously ill or can’t speak for yourself.

Formal ACP includes writing down those wishes in documents like an Advance Directive (AD). Both are helpful. Even a simple conversation can give your loved ones peace of mind and help them make decisions if you’re unable to.

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Why Is ACP Important?

  • It gives you a voice in your future health care.
  • It reduces stress for your family during medical emergencies.
  • It helps your doctors understand and follow your wishes.

What Is an Advance Directive (AD)?

An Advance Directive (AD) is a legal document. It tells others what kind of care you would want if you’re ever too sick to speak for yourself. It can also name someone (called a “health care agent”) to speak on your behalf. Virginia law supports the use of ADs and gives clear rules for how to complete them. These documents are also recognized in other states, though each state has its own laws. (See Virginia Code § 54.1-2984 for details.)

Why Is This a Public Health and Equity Issue?

Planning ahead helps everyone. But people in some communities face more barriers to care and communication. ACP makes sure all voices are heard. It’s person-centered—focused on what you want. It also supports fairness, by giving everyone the chance to be prepared, no matter their background or health status.

ACP Is for Every Adult

You don’t have to wait until you’re older or sick to plan. Sudden illness or accidents can happen at any time. That’s why ACP is good for all adults—not just people with a diagnosis.

Why Use a Trained Facilitator?

Studies show that working with a trained ACP facilitator makes a big difference. People feel more supported, complete better-quality advance directives, and have clearer conversations. Facilitators know how to listen and guide without pressure. They help make sure your plan truly reflects your values.

Who Is the Advance Directive For?

For Yourself

To make sure your choices are respected

For Your Agent

So they know what to do and feel confident in their role

For Your Clinicians

So they can give you the care you want and avoid what you don’t want

Creating vs. Using an Advance Directive

Creating an AD

  • Think about your values and health care wishes
  • Talk with loved ones
  • Write it down and sign it
  • Give copies to your agent and doctor

Using an AD

  • Health care providers and your agent refer to the AD if you're unable to speak
  • Your agent may make decisions based on what you wrote
  • Doctors use it to guide your care
  • It helps avoid confusion or conflict in emergencies

What Happens If You Don’t Plan Ahead?

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  • Your family may not know what you want.
  • Doctors may give treatments that go against your values.
  • Loved ones may feel stress, guilt, or even argue about what to do.
  • Without a clear plan, decisions may be made using the "best interest standard," which may not reflect your actual wishes.

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Advance Care Planning is a gift to yourself and to those who care about you. It’s never too early to start.

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