What are the consequences of not having an Advance Directive?

The consequences of not having an Advance Directive can lead to medical decisions being made by a surrogate or selected physician. In the absence of an Advance Directive, healthcare providers may not have clear guidance on the patient's wishes regarding medical treatment, particularly in situations where the patient is unable to communicate their preferences due to illness or incapacity. As a result, healthcare staff might need to rely on a legally designated surrogate or a physician to make decisions on the patient's behalf. This can potentially result in decisions that may not fully align with the individual's preferences or values, as the surrogate's understanding of the patient's wishes becomes crucial.

An Advance Directive is instrumental in ensuring that a person's specific choices about their medical treatment are honored, and without it, the risk of outcomes that do not reflect the patient's desires increases. It provides a means for patients to maintain control over their healthcare, even when they can no longer speak for themselves.