Patientenverfügung

Advance Medical Directive – Important Decisions for Your Future

It is essential to reflect in time, and while in good health, on creating an advance medical directive (also known as a "living will" or "medical will"). Many people postpone this decision in the hope of remaining healthy for a long time. However, only someone who plans ahead can ensure that their wishes will be respected in critical medical situations or serious illnesses.

Why is an Advance Medical Directive So Important?

Through this document, you legally establish which medical treatments you wish to receive or refuse in certain circumstances. This includes, among others:

  • Life-sustaining measures (for example, artificial nutrition or mechanical ventilation)
  • Palliative care and pain management
  • Resuscitation in case of emergency
  • Organ donation and treatment limitations

Your primary care physician or a professional healthcare advisory service can help you create your personal directive and understand medical terminology.

Creating an Advance Medical Directive – How to Proceed

📌 Inform yourself thoroughly about your options.

📌 Reflect carefully on which treatments you want and which you do not want.

📌 Use an official template or model form to ensure legal validity.

📌 Seek advice from a doctor, lawyer, notary, or patient advisory service.

📌 Store your directive in an accessible location and inform family members or appointed representatives about it.

Important Note for International Readers:

Advance medical directives are recognized in many countries, but the specific terms, legal requirements, and registration processes vary by country and region. In different countries, this document may be called:

  • Germany: Patientenverfügung
  • Spain: Documento de Voluntades Anticipadas / Instrucciones Previas
  • Italy: Dichiarazione delle Volontà Anticipate / Testamento Biologico
  • France: Déclaration de Vœux Anticipés / Testament Médical
  • UK/USA: Advance Directive / Living Will

Please contact your local healthcare provider, legal advisor, or government health authority to learn about the specific requirements in your country or region.

A well-thought-out advance medical directive provides security for you and your family and ensures that your wishes are respected when you are no longer able to express them yourself.